What Key Fob Repair Is Your Next Big Obsession
Car Key Fob Repair ServiceIf the car key fob isn't working it could put you in a tough spot. It's expensive to replace it, but in some cases it's the best solution.
You can save money by going to other locations prior to going to the dealer.
Dead Battery
A dead battery for a fob is one of the most common problems with key fobs. It can be a surprise to people, especially when it happens when you leave for work or heading out to a social gathering. You might have a backup plan, such as an extra key or number for help at the roadside, but you will still have to repair or replace the fob. It's a good idea to know that the majority of car keyfob battery problems can be fixed easily with the right knowledge.
Many modern vehicles come with a backup system to cover the possibility that a fob's batteries could go bad. Usually, if you hold the dead fob to the ignition button, you'll be able to start the car. If you own a vehicle with push-to-start technology, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will provide detailed instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other causes for a key fob not responding to button presses or turning off include the button that isn't being fully pressed or a battery that isn't fully charged or a remote that requires programming. In some instances cleaning your key fob might be enough to get it working again. Since key fob buttons are typically pressed over and over again dirt can build up that prevents them from pressing all the way.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch could be to use the tip of the paper clip. This is a safe method to open up the case and take out the old battery. You should also keep an additional battery in your bag, as well as any tool you might require to open the case for your key fob. This way, you'll be ready for any issue with your key fob, so that it doesn't interrupt your day or cause you to have the need to call roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep a spare key in your pocket so that you aren't shocked by a malfunctioning key fob.
Button Issues
When they are pressed by the buttons on remote controls send signals to its circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This can occur over time or be caused by an issue with your car or fob. A professional can fix or replace the button if it's worn.
Key fobs are often exposed to a lot of abuse. Everyday, they're broken, dropped and exposed to cold and heat. They're also quite fragile and are easily broken. The inside of the key fob is filled with components such as a circuitboard and battery contacts that can be damaged if you abuse it in a way that is excessively.
The battery in your key fob is typically enough to solve most issues however certain issues are more complex than that. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to remove the case of the fob and determine whether it's required to be replaced or cleaned. The majority of key fobs utilize 3V button cells that are readily available in any retailer.
Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only the smallest amount of water. This could be a problem if you go swimming with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This could cause damage to the chip and stop the key fob from functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best bet if you have an issue with buttons. They are usually able to repair or replace the button and reprogramme it for you. They can also solve other electrical issues, such as the broken light or sound horn that isn't working.
Cars are expensive, therefore it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that makes them run. When you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and it will be difficult to get to where you're supposed to be. Faulty technology and equipment can also pose a risk to safety and can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.
Broken Battery electronic car key repair Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you attempt to start your car it could be because the battery terminals have broken. The fob needs to be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system 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 through the fob to the internal key (if it exists), which unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob can send the signal up to 50 feet away, but when the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not work.
These are simple fixes. Replacing the battery is generally as easy as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are needed, and heading to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the right ones. Some key fobs are hard to open in order to access the batteries however, it's important to be cautious so that you do not break anything inside.
The next step is to try the key fob a second time. If it's still not working it could be because the key's metal part inside the fob is damaged or the key has been programmed. Modern keys must be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly if it was dropped or left in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was subjected to extreme heat or other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes this is the result of having work done on your vehicle that exposed wires. This could cause other issues, such as a damaged horn or malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if needed. Not having a working key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a great convenience to have but they cause issues that require professional repair. Luckily, many of the issues that can affect the car key fob are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are some of the most common problems with their potential solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and will cease to function when they're too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix - just buy the replacement battery and install.
A damaged receiver
To start and open your car the transmitter inside your keyfob must receive a message from the receiver inside your car. If this receiver is damaged, the signals will be unable to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to identify, however if the receiver appears too damaged, it may be necessary to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require an extra chip inside the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car with an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, you have to visit the dealership to get the replacement fob correct for your car. However, you can sometimes find aftermarket fobs online that work with a variety of 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 another issue that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith will be able to solve the issue by looking for the problem. This service is usually less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a new fob is contingent on your car model and the local locksmith. Check with a few companies in your area to get an idea of the price before committing to a job.