Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car's key fob stops working, you could be in a bind. While replacing it with a new one is costly and time-consuming, it's sometimes the best option.

You can save money by visiting other locations prior to going to the dealer.

Dead Battery

One of the most common problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. This can be a surprise and especially if it happens right before you leave to work or at a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, such as an additional key or a number for assistance at the roadside however, you will need to fix or replace the fob. It's good to know that most car keyfob battery problems can be fixed easily with the right information.

A majority of modern vehicles come with a backup system that can handle the possibility of the fob battery failing. If you attach a dead fob in the ignition, you are able to usually start the vehicle. If you have a vehicle with push-to-start technology it will also open your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will include specific information on where to place the fob that will start it.

Other causes for a key fob that won't respond or turn on to button press events include buttons that aren't being depressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote controller that requires reprogramming. In some instances it is possible that a simple clean could be all it takes to get your key fob working again. Because key fob buttons are often repeatedly pressed the dirt may build up that prevents them from pressing to the fullest extent.

An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to use the tip of the paper clip. This is a safe method to open up the case and remove the battery. Keep an additional battery and any tools you'll need to remove the key fob's case on hand. This way, you can be ready for an issue with your key fob so that it doesn't disrupt your day or cause you to have the need to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get surprised in the event of problems with your key fob.

Button Issues

When they are pressed, the buttons on the remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If these buttons wear out, signals may not be transmitted and your fob will stop functioning. This can occur over time, or could be a result of another issue with the car or fob. If the button is worn or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs are usually subjected to a lot of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to cold and hot every day. They're also very delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the fob has components like circuit boards and battery contacts, which can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.

Changing the battery in your key fob is typically enough to solve most issues, but some issues are more complicated than the others. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob with an screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or requires replacing. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries, which can be purchased in almost any retailer.

Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only a small amount of water. This can be a concern when you accidentally wash your key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip, Car Key Fob Repair Service preventing the key fob from working.

A professional locksmith is your best option if there is a problem with a button. They can usually repair or replace the button and reprogramme it for you. They can also work on other electrical issues, such as the horn that is broken or lights that aren't turning on.

Cars are expensive, therefore it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't do this then your vehicle will not function properly and you will have a much more difficult in getting to where would like to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a safety issue and can result in serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob hasn't worked when you try to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals have broken. The fob needs to be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock and start it. The communication happens via a small radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the internal car key (if there is one) and it opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to send this signal at distances of up to 50 feet, but the transmission may not work when the battery terminals are broken.

Fortunately, these are simple fixes. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, determine what type of batteries you require, and visit an auto key fob repair parts store or online retailer to purchase the right ones. Some key fobs are hard to open in order to get access to the batteries however, and it is important to be cautious to ensure that you do not break anything inside.

Then, try the key fob a second time. If the key fob doesn't work, the metal key inside the fob could be damaged or the key could have been changed in programming. Modern keys must be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes may affect the programming of the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who can reprogram the key to the car.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly in the event that it was dropped or left in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was exposed to extreme heat or other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. Sometimes this is the result of work being done on your vehicle that exposed wires. This could then lead to other problems, like a malfunctioning horn or a malfunctioning fob. It is essential to examine your key fob for damages and replace or repair it if needed, as not having a functioning key can be very stressful and dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have but they also cause issues that require professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of issues that can affect keys for cars are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their possible solutions.

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter lifespan than most basic remotes. Fob batteries are typically required to be replaced every three or four years, and they are prone to fail when they're old. Fortunately this is a simple problem to solve - simply purchase a replacement battery and put it in.

Damaged receiver

To start and open your car, the transmitter in your keyfob has to receive a message from the receiver inside your car keys repair. If this receiver is damaged, the signals won't be able to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is an easy problem to identify, but it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's too damaged.

Not programmed

Certain modern cars require a special chip inside the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car via a unique code that only the manufacturer knows. In most cases, a replacement fob has to be programmed by the dealer. However, you can sometimes find fobs from the aftermarket that work with a variety of vehicles.

Not working

If you have tried replacing the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still doesn't work it could be due to an electrical issue or other type of issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith will be able to check for this type of issue and help you get your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This service will normally be less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob will vary depending on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you use locally. You can get a good idea of the price by speaking with several local businesses prior to making a booking.