Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob may seem like an incidental item, if it stops functioning properly, you could be in a tricky spot. While replacing it with a brand new key fob can be expensive, sometimes it is the most effective alternative.

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

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can be a shock and especially if it happens just as you're leaving for work or attending a social gathering. While you may have an alternative plan in place for emergencies, like an extra key or phone number for assistance on the road, you will likely require the fob to be repaired or replaced. It's important to know that the majority of car keyfob battery issues can be fixed easily with the right information.

Many modern vehicles come with an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that the fob's battery might fail. Usually, if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button and press it, you will be able to start the vehicle. If you have a vehicle with push-to-start technology and you want to unlock your doors. The owner's manual for your car will contain detailed instructions on where to place the fob that will start it.

Other reasons for a key fob that doesn't respond or turn on to button presses could be a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery with low capacity, or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some cases it is possible that a simple clean could be all that is needed to make your key fob work again. Since key fob buttons are repeatedly pressed, dirt could accumulate and prevent them from being fully pressed.

A quick method to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to make use of the end of a paper clip. This is a safe method to open up the case and take out the old battery. It is also advisable to keep an additional battery on hand, as well as any tool you might require to open the case of your key fob. This way, you'll be prepared in case of a problem with your key fob to ensure that it doesn't disrupt your routine and cause you to have the need to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra key in your purse so that you don't get caught off guard by a problem with your key fob.

Button Issues

When they are pressed, the buttons on the remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent. The fob could cease to function. This could occur over time, or could be due to an issue related to the fob or vehicle. A professional will be able to repair or replace the button if it's worn out.

Key fobs typically see lots of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and hot every day. They're also very delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the fob contains parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that can be destroyed if abused enough.

Most issues can be solved by replacing the battery in your fob, but there are some that require more. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob using the help of a screwdriver to determine if it is dirty or requires replacing. Most key fobs use 3V button cells that are readily available in every store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only one drop of water. This can be a problem when you swim with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This could cause damage to the chip, preventing the key fob from working.

If you're dealing with a problem with a button the best solution is to call a professional locksmith. They can usually fix or replace the button and reprogramme it for you. They can also work on other electrical failures like lighting problems or a horn that won't turn on.

Automobiles are costly, so it's essential to stay up to date with technology and equipment that makes them run. If you don't, your vehicle won't function properly and you will have a much more difficult time getting to where you want to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also pose a risk to safety, as it can result in serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you've been trying to start your car but the fob isn't functioning this could be a sign that the battery terminals are broken. The fob must be able to communicate with the central system of the vehicle in order to unlock it and start it. This communication is made via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the internal car key (if there is one), which in turn unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob can transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, but if the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission might not work.

Fortunately, these are simple fixes. Replacing the battery is typically as easy as removing the old battery, finding out which replacement batteries are needed and then heading to an auto parts store or online retailer for the right ones. Some key fobs are hard to open to get access to the batteries however, and it is important to be cautious so that you don't damage anything inside.

Next, try the key fob a second time. If it still doesn't work it could be because the metal key itself inside the fob is damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys repair have to be programmed in order to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes may affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key for 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 may have failed due to the fact that the key fob was exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. Sometimes this is the result of work that was done to your car that accidentally left exposed wires, which could cause other issues, such as a damaged horn or malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace it or keyless entry repair it if needed. Not having a working key can be stressful and dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs are a great convenience to have, but they can cause issues that require professional repair. Many of the issues that can be a problem for a car keyfob are simple and affordable to fix. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues and solutions for them:

A dead battery

The majority of basic remotes last for a long time before requiring an upgrade in battery, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries are typically required to be replaced every three or four years, and they will cease to function when they are too old. Fortunately it is a simple problem to solve - simply purchase a replacement battery and put it in.

Damaged receiver

The transmitter in your key fob needs to receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle in order to allow it to be opened and started. If this receiver is damaged, the signals will be unable to pass through and remain unreadable. This is a simple issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if too damaged.

Not programmed

Certain cars of the present require a special chip inside the key fob for it to start. The chip communicates to the car with an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, you must go to the dealer to purchase a replacement fob that is programmed correctly for your car. However, you can sometimes find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with most vehicles.

Not working

If you have tried replacing the batteries and buttons but your car key fob still doesn't work it could be an electrical issue or some other type of issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith will be able to fix this problem by checking for the problem. This service is usually 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 a few local companies before scheduling a job.