Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could seem like an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could find yourself in a difficult spot. It's costly to replace it, but in some cases it's the best option.
However, before key car repair go to the dealer to have one of your documents redrawn there are a variety of places you can go that will save you money.
Dead Battery
A dead battery for a fob is one of the most common issues with key fobs. It can be a surprise to people and is most likely to happen as you are leaving for work or heading out to a social gathering. You may have a back-up plan, like an additional key or a number for help at the roadside, but you will still need to fix or replace the fob. It's important to know that most car keyfob battery problems can be fixed easily with the right tools.
A lot of modern cars have a backup system in place that can handle the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. Usually, if you hold the dead fob to the ignition button you'll be able start the vehicle. If you own a vehicle with push-to-start technology, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's manual for your car will provide detailed information about where to place the fob of the key to start it.
Other causes for a key fob not responding to press buttons or turning off include a button which isn't pressed all the way, a low-capacity battery or a remote that requires programming. In some instances it is possible that a simple clean could suffice to get your key fob working again. When key fob buttons are repeatedly pressed, dirt could build up and block them from being fully pressed.
You can make use of the end of a clip clean your key fob. You can use this to safely open the case and remove your old battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any tools you may need to open the key fob's case at hand. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob well in advance, so you do not have to worry about it ruining your day or having to call roadside assistance. Keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid being caught off guard if you have a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob send signals to the remote's circuit board when they are hit. If the buttons wear out, the signals may not be transmitted and the fob won't be working. This could happen over time or be caused by an issue with your car or fob. A professional will be able to repair or replace the button if it's damaged.
Key fobs are usually subjected to a lot of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and heat every day. They're also pretty delicate and easily damaged. The inside of the fob is filled with parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that can be destroyed with enough abuse.
Most issues can be solved by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are certain issues that require more. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob using a screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or requires replacement. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells that can be found in nearly every store.
Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only a small amount of water. This could be a problem when you wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could damage the chip and stop the key fob from functioning.
If you're experiencing a problem with a button the best solution is to contact a professional locksmith. They can repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also address other electrical problems, like the broken light or Horn that isn't working.
Cars are expensive, so it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't, your vehicle will not function properly and will be harder to get to where you need to be. It's also a major safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology since it can cause more serious mechanical problems down the road.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you have been trying to start your car but the fob hasn't been working it could be a sign that the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start your car, the fob has to be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This communication is carried out via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) which then opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to be able to send this signal over distances of up 50 feet, however the transmission might not function when the battery terminals have been damaged.
Luckily, these are easy solutions. It's usually simple to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, identify the type of battery you require, and head to an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the correct batteries. Some key fobs are hard to open to access the batteries, however, and it pays to be cautious to ensure that you do not break anything inside.
Then, try the key fob a second time. If the key fob still does not work the key that is in the fob could be damaged or the key might have been changed in programming. Modern keys must be programmed to work with certain vehicles, and a 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 another possibility, especially if the fob was dropped or left out in the rain. The circuit board may be damaged because the key fob was exposed to heat excessively or other issues. This could happen if you have work done to your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other problems, like a damaged key fob or a damaged horn. It is essential to examine your key fob for damage and repair or replace it if necessary, as the absence of a functioning key could be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a great convenience, but they can cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can affect keys for cars are relatively easy and cheap to solve. Here are a few of the most common problems with their potential solutions.
A dead battery
Most basic remotes can last for a long time before requiring an upgrade in battery, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and they can easily stop working when they're too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix - just buy the replacement battery and install.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob has to receive an input from the vehicle's receiver to allow it to open and start it. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't get through and will remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to diagnose but if the receiver is too damaged, it may be necessary for you to replace it.
Not programmed
Some modern cars require a specific chip in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car using a unique code that only the manufacturer can understand. In most cases, you must visit the dealership to obtain the replacement fob programmed correctly for your car. However, you may find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with most vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob will not function after you've replaced the battery and the buttons, it could be due to an electrical problem or a different issue that requires professional assistance to fix. A locksmith professional will be able to check for this kind of issue and help you get your key fob back in working order quickly. This service is usually less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob can vary based on the model of your car as well as the locksmith you use locally. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the cost prior to booking the job.