Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could seem like an afterthought, if it stops functioning properly, you could be in a tricky spot. While replacing it with a new one is costly, sometimes it is the most effective 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. It can be a shock particularly if it occurs just as you're leaving for work or attending a social gathering. Even if you have an alternative plan in place for emergencies, like a spare key or a phone number for assistance on the road You will probably require getting the fob fixed or replaced. The good news is that the majority of car key fob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right tools.
Many modern cars come with a backup system to cover the possibility that the fob's battery may fail. If you hold a dead fob to the ignition, you will generally start the vehicle. If you own a vehicle that has push-to-start it will also open your doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will provide detailed instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other causes of a key fob that won't respond or turn on to button presses could be buttons that aren't being depressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some instances, cleaning your key fob may be enough to get it working again. As key fob buttons get pressed repeatedly, dirt can build up and stop them from being pressed all the way.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to make use of the end of the paper clip. This is a safe method to open the case and take out the old battery. You should also keep an extra battery handy and any tool you might need to open up the case for your key fob. You can prepare for issues with your keyfob well in advance, so that you do not have to worry about it affecting your day or calling roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get taken by surprise when you encounter an issue with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob transmit signals to the circuit board of the remote when they are hit. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. The fob could cease to function. This can happen over time or be caused by another issue with the car or fob. A professional can fix or replace the button if it's damaged.
Key fobs are often subject to a lot of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to cold and hot on a regular basis. They are also quite fragile and can easily be broken. The inside of the key fob contains components like a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you abuse it too much.
Most issues can be solved by replacing the battery on your fob, however there are some that require more. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to remove the fob case and determine whether it is required to be cleaned or replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries, which can be purchased in almost any retailer.
Even emergency car key repair can cause damage to the fob. This could be a concern in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This can damage the chip and stop the key fob from functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if you're having a problem with buttons. They will usually be able to fix or replace the button and reprogramme it for you. They can also address other electrical problems, like the broken light or horn that won't work.
Cars are expensive, therefore it's important to keep up to date with the latest technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't then your vehicle will not function effectively and you'll have a much more difficult getting to where you would like to go. It's also a big security risk to have defective equipment and technology because it can lead to more serious mechanical problems down the road.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you attempt to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals are damaged. The fob has to be capable of communicating with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock and start it. This communication is made via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted by the fob to an internal key (if it exists) which opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob can transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, however if the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not function.
Luckily, these are easy solutions. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, figure out the kind of batteries you need, and then head to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the appropriate ones. It may be difficult to open key fobs in order to access the batteries. Be cautious not to break anything.
The next step is to try the key fob a second time. If the key fob does not work the key that is in the fob might be damaged or the key might have been changed in programming. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with certain automobiles, and certain errors in the code can corrupt the programming of the key fob. This can be fixed by a professional who will reprogram the key to the car.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, especially in the event that it was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this can be the result of work being done on your car that accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to further problems, like a malfunctioning horn or a malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if required. In the absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are an excellent convenience, however they may also cause problems that require professional assistance. Many of the problems that may be a problem for a car keyfob are easy and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems, and potential solutions.
A dead battery
Most basic remotes can last for a long time before they require a new battery, but the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and they can easily stop working when they're old. Fortunately this is a simple solution - just purchase a replacement battery and install it.
A damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob needs to receive signals from the vehicle's receiver in order to open and start it. If this receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to diagnose however it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's damaged to the point of being unusable.
Not programmed
Certain cars of the present require a special chip in the key fob in order to start. This chip communicates to the car using a unique code 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 vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob does not work after having replaced the battery and buttons it could be due to an electrical problem or another type of issue that requires professional assistance to fix. 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 is usually less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a replacement fob will vary depending on the model of your car as well as the locksmith you use locally. You can get an estimate of the cost by contacting a few local companies before making a booking.