Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob may seem like an extravagance, if it ceases functioning properly, you could be in a difficult spot. It's costly to replace it, but in some cases it's the most effective solution.

However, before you go to the dealer to get one reprogramed there are a variety of locations that will save you money.

Dead Battery

One of the most common problems with key fobs is a dead battery. It can catch people off guard and is most likely to happen while you're leaving for work or heading out to a party. You might have a backup plan, such as an extra key or a number for help at the roadside, but you will still have to repair or replace the fob. It's good to know that most car keyfob battery issues can be fixed easily with the right knowledge.

A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system that can handle the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. Usually it is the case that if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button, you'll be able to start the car. If you own a car that has push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's manual of your vehicle will include detailed information about where to place the fob of the key to start it.

Other causes for keys that don't turn on or respond to button press events include a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery with low capacity, or a remote control that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances, a simple cleaning may be all that is needed to make your key fob work again. Because key fob buttons are often pressed over and over again, dirt can accumulate and stop them from pressing down to the fullest extent.

You can use the clip's end of a clip clean your key fob. It is safe to open the case and take out the old battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any other tools you might need to open the case of your key fob in your possession. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob well in advance, so that you do not have to be worried about it affecting your life or calling roadside assistance. Keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid getting surprised when you encounter an issue with your key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board of the remote when they're hit. If the buttons become worn out, signals won't be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This could happen over time or be caused by another issue with the car or fob. If the button is worn out it is possible to replace it or repair it.

Key fobs are often subject to lots of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and heat on a daily basis. They're also very fragile and easily damaged. The inside of the fob is filled with parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.

Most issues can be fixed by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are some that require more. You can test the battery using a screwdriver in order to open the fob case and determine whether it's required to be cleaned or replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought at almost any store.

Even a small amount of force can damage the fob. This can be a problem when you accidentally wash your key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This can cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to stop functioning.

Contacting a professional locksmith is the best bet if you have issues with buttons. They can usually repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They also can fix other electrical issues, such as the horn that is broken or lights that won't work.

Automobiles are costly, so it is essential to keep up with the technology and equipment that make them run. When you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and will be harder to get to where you need to be. It's also a major security risk to have defective equipment and technology because it could cause more serious mechanical issues down the road.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob isn't working when you attempt to start your car, it could be that the battery terminals have failed. The fob needs 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 the internal key (if it exists), which unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, however if the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission may not work.

These are straightforward fixes. The process of replacing the battery is usually as simple as removing the old battery, figuring out which type of replacement batteries are needed, and visiting an auto parts retailer or online store to find the proper batteries. Some key fobs are difficult to open in order to access the batteries, however, and it pays to be cautious so that you don't break anything inside.

Then, try the key fob once more. If it doesn't work it could be because the metal key itself inside the fob is damaged or the key has been programmed. Modern keys are programmed to work with certain automobiles, and certain errors in the code can corrupt the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogram the key to the vehicle.

Another possibility is that the fob is damaged, especially in the event that it was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob repair fob was exposed to extreme heat or other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. This could happen if you work on your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could cause other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a damaged horn. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace it or repair it if required. In the absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are a great convenience, but they can also cause issues that require professional assistance. Thankfully, many of the issues that can affect the car key fob are fairly simple and cost-effective to repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their possible solutions.

A dead battery

The majority of basic remotes last for a long time before requiring a new battery, but the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and can easily stop working when they're too old. Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix - just buy a new replacement battery and put it in.

Damaged receiver

To start and open your car the transmitter on your keyfob must receive a message from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, the signals will be unable to pass through, and remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to diagnose however, if the receiver is damaged, it could be necessary to replace it.

Not programmed

Some modern cars require a specific chip in the key repair fob to allow it to start. This chip communicates to the car with a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, you must visit the dealership to obtain a replacement fob that is properly programmed for your vehicle. You can find replacement fobs that can be used with many vehicles online.

Not working

If you have tried replacing the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still does not work it could be an electrical issue or 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 will normally be cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob will vary depending on the model of your car and the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the cost prior to booking a job.