Car Key Fob Repair Service

If the car key fob stops working, you could be in a tough spot. While replacing it with a new one can be costly but sometimes it's the most cost-effective alternative.

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

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is a dead battery. It can be a shock and especially if it happens when you're leaving for work or attending a social event. You might have a backup plan, such as an extra key or a number for help at the roadside however, you will have to repair or replace the fob. It's important to know that the majority of car keyfob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right tools.

A lot of modern cars have a backup system that allows for the possibility of the fob battery failing. Usually it is the case that if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button and press it, you'll be able start the vehicle. If you own a vehicle that has push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will provide detailed instructions on how to use the key fob.

Other reasons why a key fob not responding to button presses or turning on could be buttons that aren't pressed all the way, a low-capacity battery or a remote which requires programming. In some cases cleaning your key fob might be enough to make it work again. Because key fob buttons are often repeatedly pressed, dirt can build up that prevents them from pressing all the way.

An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to use the tip of the paper clip. This is a safe method to open the case and take out the old battery. Keep an additional battery and any tools you'll need to remove the key fob's case in your possession. This way, you can be prepared for a problem with your key fob, so that it doesn't interrupt your day or cause you to have need to call for roadside assistance. Keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid getting surprised when you encounter a problem with your key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board of the remote when they are pressed. If the buttons wear out, signals may not be sent. The device may cease to function. This could happen over time, or could be due to some other issue related to the fob or vehicle. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's damaged.

Key fobs often get quite a bit of abuse. Every day, they're damaged, thrown around, and exposed both to cold and heat. They're also extremely fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the key fob has components such as a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you use it enough.

Most issues can be fixed by replacing the battery on your fob, however there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the case of the fob and determine if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries that can be bought at almost any store.

Even a small amount can harm the fob. This could be a concern when you swim with the key fob in your purse or accidentally run it through the washing machine. This could cause damage to the chip and prevent the key fob from functioning.

Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option if there is a problem with the button. They will be able to fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems, like an unresponsive light or a sound horn that isn't working.

It's important to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. If you don't then your vehicle will not function properly and you will have a much more difficult getting to where you would like to go. It's also a risk to be a victim of defective equipment and technology because it could cause more serious mechanical issues later on.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob hasn't worked when you try to start your car it could be because the battery terminals have broken. The fob needs to be capable of communicating with the central system of the vehicle to unlock and start it. This communication is accomplished via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted by the fob to the internal key (if it is present), which unlocks the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is designed to be able to send this signal up 50 feet, however the transmission may not work when the battery terminals have been damaged.

These are simple fixes. It's usually simple to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, determine the type of battery you require, and go to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct batteries. It can be a challenge to open key fobs to access the batteries. Be careful not to break any item.

The next step is to test the key fob once more. If the key fob still does not work the key that is in the fob might be damaged or the key might be reprogrammed. Modern keys need to be programmed to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. This can be fixed by a professional who can re-program the key to the car.

A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if the fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. Sometimes this is the result of having work done on your vehicle that left exposed wires, which could then lead to other issues, such as a damaged horn or a malfunctioning fob. Examine your key fob and replace it or repair it if required. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are an excellent convenience, but they can also cause problems that need professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can plague a car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to solve. Here are some of the most frequent problems, and potential solutions.

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and can easily stop working when they're too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix - simply purchase a replacement battery and install.

Damaged receiver

The transmitter in your key fob has to receive signals from the vehicle's receiver to allow it to open and start it. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not get through and will remain unreadable. This is an easy problem to determine, however, Key Fob Repair Service if the receiver is too damaged, it may be necessary to replace it.

Not programmed

Certain cars of the present require a specific chip in the key fob to allow it to start. The chip communicates to the car using an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, a replacement key fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. However, you may find fobs from the aftermarket that work with a variety of automobiles.

Not working

If you have tried replacing the batteries and buttons but your car key fob does not work, it could be an electrical issue or other issue that requires professional repair car key fob. A locksmith professional will be able to look for this kind of issue and get your key fob back to good working order in a short time. This is usually less expensive than going to the dealer. The cost of a new fob is contingent on your car model and the locksmith you choose to use locally. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to know the price before committing to a job.