Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car's key fob stops working it could put you in a bind. While replacing it with a new one is costly, sometimes it is the most cost-effective option.

But before you head to the dealer to have one of your documents redrawn, there are several other locations that will save you money.

Dead Battery

A dead battery on a key fob is one of the most common issues with key fobs. It can be a surprise to people and is most likely to happen when you leave to work or going to a social event. You may have a back-up plan, like an additional key or a number for roadside help but you'll still have to repair or replace the fob. It's important to know that the majority of car keyfob battery problems can be fixed easily with the right knowledge.

Many modern vehicles come with a backup system to cover the possibility that the fob's battery might fail. If you connect an uncharged fob to the ignition, you can usually start the car. If you own a push-to-start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will include detailed instructions on where to put the fob of the key to start it.

Other causes of a key fob that won't be able to turn on or respond to button press events include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote car key repairs controller that requires reprogramming. In some cases cleaning your key fob might be enough to get it working again. Because key fob buttons are typically pressed over and over again the dirt may build up that prevents them from pressing all the way.

A quick way to clean your key fob in a pinch could be to use the tip of the paper clip. You can use this to safely open the case and take out the old battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any tools you'll require to open the case of your key fob at hand. You can prepare for issues with your keyfob well in advance, so you do not have to be worried about it affecting your day or calling roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep an extra key in your purse so you don't get surprised by a problem with your key fob.

Button Issues

When pressed on a remote control send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons wear out, the signals might not be sent and your device will stop working. This could happen over time or could be due to another issue with the car or fob. If the button has worn out or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs are often subject to a lot of abuse. Everyday, they're broken, dropped and exposed to cold and heat. They're also pretty delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the fob contains components like circuit boards and battery contacts, which can be destroyed if abused enough.

Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to remove the case of your key fob and see whether it is required to be replaced or cleaned. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought in almost any retailer.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just the smallest amount of water. This could be a problem in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This can cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob repair near me fob to cease working.

A professional locksmith is the best option if you're having issues with buttons. They can usually fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical failures like lighting problems or a horn that aren't turning on.

Automobiles are costly, so it's essential to stay up to date with technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't do this then your vehicle will not function correctly and you'll be having a harder time getting to where you need to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a security issue in that it could lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you've been trying to start your car and the fob hasn't been working it could be a sign that the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start your car, the fob has to be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. This communication is done via a tiny radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the internal car key (if there is one) and it unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob is able to send the signal up to 50 feet away, however if the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission may not work.

Luckily, these are easy fixes. The process of replacing the battery is usually as easy as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are needed and car key fob repair service then heading to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct ones. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to access the batteries. Be cautious not to scratch any item.

Next, try the key fob once more. If it's still not working it could be that the key made of metal inside the fob has been damaged or the key has been programmed. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who will re-program the key to the vehicle.

A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if the fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. The circuit board could be damaged because the key fob had been exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. This can happen when you have work done to your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other problems, like a damaged key fob or a damaged horn. Check your key fob and replace it or repair it if necessary. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience but they also cause problems that need professional repair. Luckily, many of the issues that can affect a car key fob are fairly simple and cost-effective to repair. Here are some of the most common problems and possible solutions:

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter lifespan than most basic remotes. Fob batteries must be changed every three to four years and can stop functioning if they get too old. Luckily it is a simple problem to solve - simply buy a new replacement battery and put it in.

Damaged receiver

To start and open your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob needs to receive a signal from the receiver in your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is a simple problem to determine, but if the receiver is damaged, it could be necessary for you to replace it.

Not programmed

Certain modern cars require a specific chip in the key fob to allow for start. The chip communicates with the car through a code that only the manufacturer can understand. In the majority of cases, you have to visit the dealership to get an alternative fob that has been programmed correctly for your car. You can find replacement fobs that work with a wide range of vehicles.

Not working

If your car key fob will not function after you've replaced the battery and buttons it could be due to an electrical problem or a different problem that requires a professional fix. A professional locksmith will be able to fix this problem by checking for the issue. This service is usually cheaper than going to a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will vary depending on the model of your car and your local locksmith. Check with a few companies in your area to find out the cost before booking the job.