Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car's key fob doesn't work you may be in a tough spot. It can be expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.

However, before you go to the dealer to get one of your documents redrawn, there are several other locations that will save you money.

Dead Battery

A dead battery for a fob is one of the most common problems with key fobs. It can be a surprise to people and can be a real shock, particularly as you are leaving for work or heading to a social gathering. You may have a back-up plan, like an extra key or a number for assistance at the roadside, but you will still require a fix or replacement for the fob. The good news is that the majority of car key fob battery issues are easily fixable with the right information.

Many modern vehicles come with an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that the fob's battery may fail. If you hold an uncharged fob to the ignition, you can generally start the vehicle. If you have a vehicle that uses push-to-start it will also open your doors. The owner's guide for your car will provide specific information on where to put the fob of the key to start it.

Other reasons for keys that don't be able to turn on or respond to the button presses include buttons that aren't being depressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote controller that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances, a simple cleaning may be all it takes to make your key fob work again. As key fob buttons get repeatedly pressed, dirt may build up and stop them from being fully pressed.

You can use the end of a clip clean your key fob. This is a safe method to open the case and remove the old battery. You should also keep an extra battery handy along with any other tools you may need to open up the case of your key fob. This way, you'll be prepared for a problem with your key fob so that it doesn't disrupt your routine and cause you to the need to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra key in your pocket so that you don't get caught off guard by a key fob issue.

Button Issues

When pressed by the buttons on remote controls send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. The fob could stop working. This can occur over time or may be due to an issue with your car or fob. If the button is worn out, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs are often exposed to a lot of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed, and exposed to cold and heat every day. They're also very fragile and can easily be broken. The inside of the key fob contains components such as a circuitboard and battery contacts, which could be destroyed if you use it enough.

Most issues can be solved by changing the battery in your fob, but there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery using a screwdriver in order to open the fob case and determine whether it's required to be cleaned or replaced. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be purchased at almost any store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just a small amount of water. This can be a concern when you accidentally wash the key fob or go swimming with it in your pocket. This could harm the transponder chip and cause the key fob to cease working.

Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if there is an issue with a button. They can fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical problems like a broken light or a sound horn that isn't working.

It is essential to keep up-to-date with the most recent technology and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be expensive. If you don't the vehicle won't work correctly and you'll have a much more difficult in getting to where would like to go. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also be a safety issue and can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you've been trying to start your car and the fob hasn't been working this could be an indication that the battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the car, the fob has to be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. The communication happens via a tiny radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted through the fob to the internal key (if it exists) which opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to transmit this signal at distances of up to 50 feet, but the transmission may not work if the battery terminals have been damaged.

Fortunately, they are easy fixes. Replacing the battery is typically as easy as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are needed and then visiting an auto parts store or online retailer for the correct ones. It can be a challenge to open key fobs to get to the batteries. Be cautious not to damage any item.

Then, try the key fob again. If the key fob does not work the key made of metal inside the fob may be damaged or the key might be changed in programming. Modern keys have to be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who will program the key again to the vehicle.

A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob was exposed to heat excessively, or other problems. This can happen when you work on your vehicle key repairs and accidentally exposed wires. This could cause other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a damaged horn. Examine your key fob and replace it or repair it if required. The absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are a great convenience to have however, they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can affect keys for cars are relatively easy and cheap to repair. Here are a few of the most common problems and their possible solutions:

A dead battery

Most basic remotes can last a long time before they require replacement batteries, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. The batteries for fobs must be changed every three to four years and can stop working if they become too old. Fortunately it is a simple solution - just buy a new replacement battery and put it in.

A damaged receiver

To start and open your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob must receive a signal from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, the signals will not be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is a simple issue to determine, but it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is damaged to the point of being unusable.

Not programmed

Some modern cars require a specific chip in the key fob for it to start. The chip communicates with the car using a unique code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In most instances, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. You can find replacement fobs that can be used with a variety of vehicles.

Not working

If you've tried replacing the batteries and buttons but your car key fob still isn't working it could be an electrical issue or other issue that requires professional attention. A locksmith professional will be able to check for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This is usually less expensive than going to a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob can vary based on the model of your car as well as the locksmith you have chosen to use. Check with a few companies in your area to get an idea of the cost prior to booking an appointment.