Car Key Fob Repair Service

While the car key fob might seem a bit of an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could find yourself in a tricky spot. It's expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.

But before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated there are a variety of locations that can save you money.

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is a dead battery. This could be a shock and especially if it happens when you're leaving for work or a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, like an extra key or number for assistance at the roadside however, you will have to repair or replace the fob. The good news is that most mobile car key repair near me key fob battery problems can be fixed with the right information.

A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system that can handle the possibility of a fob battery going bad. Usually it is the case that if you hold the dead fob to the ignition button, you'll be able start the vehicle. If you own a push-to-start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you specific instructions on how to use the key fob.

Other causes for a key fob that doesn't respond or turn on to the button presses include the button isn't being pressed completely, Key Fob Repair Service a battery that has low capacity or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some instances, cleaning your key fob could be enough to get it working again. Since key fob buttons are frequently repeatedly pressed dirt can build up and prevent them from pressing all the way.

You can make use of the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. You can use this to open the case securely and take out the old battery. Keep an extra battery and any tools you may require to open the case of your key car repair fob on hand. This way, you'll be prepared in case of a problem with your key fob, so that it won't disrupt your day or cause you to the need to call roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep a spare key in your purse so that you don't get surprised by a key fob issue.

Button Issues

When they are pressed by the buttons on a remote key fob repair near me control transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals may not be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This can occur over time or could be due to another issue with the car or fob. A professional will be able to repair or replace the button if it's damaged.

Key fobs typically see a lot of abuse. Everyday, they're broken, dropped, and exposed both to cold and heat. They are also quite fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the key fob is filled with components like a circuit board and battery contacts which can be damaged if you abuse it too much.

Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery on the fob, however there are some that require more. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to remove the fob case and determine whether it is required to be cleaned or replaced. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells that are readily available in every store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only the smallest amount of water. This could be a problem when you accidentally wash your automotive key repair fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and stop the key fob from working.

If you're having an issue with your button the best solution is to contact a professional locksmith. They will be able to fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They also can fix other electrical issues, such as the horn that is broken or lights that aren't turning on.

Automobiles are costly, so it is essential to keep up to date with technology and equipment that makes them run. If you don't do this the vehicle won't work effectively and you'll encounter a more difficult in getting to where need to go. It's also a major safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology since it could cause more serious mechanical problems down the road.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you've tried to start your car and the fob hasn't been working it could be a sign that your battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the car, the fob must be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. The communication happens via a tiny radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it is present), which unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to be able to transmit this signal up to 50 feet, but the transmission may not work when the battery terminals have been damaged.

These are simple fixes. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, figure out the type of battery you require, and then visit an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the correct one. Certain key fobs are difficult to open in order to access the batteries however, it's important to be cautious so that you don't damage anything inside.

The next step is to test the key fob again. If the key fob isn't working, the metal key inside the fob might be damaged or the key may have been modified. Modern keys need to be programmed to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes can corrupt the programming in the key fob repair 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, particularly in the event that it was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was subjected to extreme heat or other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this is because of work being done on your car that accidentally left exposed wires, which could then lead to other malfunctions such as a broken horn or malfunctioning key fob. It is important to check the key fob for damage and replace or repair it if necessary, as not having a functioning key could be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have however, they can cause issues that require professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of issues that can affect the car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to fix. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues and their possible solutions:

A dead battery

The majority of basic remotes last for a long time before requiring an upgrade in battery, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries need to be replaced every three to four years and can stop working if they are too old. Fortunately this is a simple solution - just purchase a replacement battery and then install it.

A damaged receiver

To open and start your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob must receive a signal from the receiver in your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not pass through and remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is too damaged.

Not programmed

Certain modern cars require a special chip in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with your car via a unique code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In most cases, a replacement fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. There are aftermarket fobs that are compatible with a variety of vehicles.

Not working

If you've tried replacing the battery and buttons but your car key fob isn't working it could be due to an electrical issue or other kind of problem that requires professional fix. A professional locksmith will be able to look for this kind of issue and help you get your key fob back in working order quickly. This is usually less expensive than going to a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will vary depending on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you use locally. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to find out the price before committing to the job.