Why Everyone Is Talking About Key Fob Repair Right Now
Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could seem like an incidental item, if it stops functioning properly, you could find yourself in a tricky spot. While replacing it with a new one is costly, sometimes it is the best option.
However, before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated, there are several other places you can go to save money.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can catch people off guard and is most likely to happen as you are leaving for work or heading to a social event. There may be a backup plan, like an extra key or a number for roadside help however, you will require a fix or replacement for the fob. It's a good idea to know that the majority of battery issues for car keys can be easily fixed with the right information.
A lot of modern cars have backup systems to deal with the possibility that a fob's battery may fail. If you hold a dead fob to the ignition, you will typically start the vehicle. If you have a push-to start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's manual of your vehicle will include detailed information about where to place the fob that will start it.
Other reasons why keys not responding to press buttons or turning off include the button that isn't being pressed all the way or is a battery with a low capacity or a remote which requires programming. In some instances, cleaning your key fob may be enough to make it 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 could be to use the end of a paper clip. This is a safe method to open the case and remove the battery. You should also keep an additional battery in your bag along with any tool you'll need to open up the case of your key fob. This way, you'll be ready for any issue with your key fob to ensure that it doesn't disrupt your day or result in having to call for roadside assistance. Alternatively, you can keep an extra key in your purse so that you don't get shocked by a key fob issue.
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, the signals might not be sent and the fob won't be working. This can occur over time, or it could be the result of some other issue with the fob or car. If the button is worn, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs are usually subjected to a lot abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and heat every day. They're also extremely fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the fob has components like circuit boards and battery contacts that can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.
Most problems can be resolved by changing the battery in the fob, however there are some that require more. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the fob case and determine if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. Most key fobs use 3V button cells, which are available in almost any retailer.
Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's the smallest amount of water. This can be a problem in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This can harm the transponder chip and cause the key fob to stop functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best bet if you have an issue with buttons. They are usually able to repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They also can fix other electrical failures like lighting problems or a horn that won't work.
Automobiles are costly, so it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't do this the vehicle won't work properly and you will encounter a more difficult in getting to where need to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a safety issue, as it can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you try to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals have failed. The fob needs to be capable of communicating with the central system of the vehicle to unlock and start it. The communication happens via a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the internal car key (if there is one) and it unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob is designed to transmit this signal up 50 feet, however the transmission may not function when the battery terminals are damaged.
Fortunately, car keys repair are simple solutions. Replacing the battery is generally as simple as removing the old battery, finding out what type of replacement batteries are required, and heading to an auto parts retailer or online store to find the proper batteries. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to get to the batteries. Be cautious not to scratch anything.
The next step is to try the key fob again. If it doesn't work it could be that the metal key itself inside the fob is damaged or that the key has been programmed. Modern keys have to be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes could corrupt the programming in the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who will re-program the key to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly if it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board might have failed due to the fact that the key fob had been exposed to excessive heat, or other problems. This can happen when you work on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other malfunctions like a broken key fob or broken horn. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if required. The absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they can also cause issues which require professional repair. A lot of the issues that can cause problems with a car keyfob can be easy and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of the most common problems with their solutions.
A dead battery
The majority of basic remotes last a long time before they require replacement batteries, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three to four years, and they can cease working if they are too old. Fortunately this is a simple solution - just purchase a new replacement battery and put it in.
A damaged receiver
To open and start your vehicle the transmitter inside your keyfob has to receive a message from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't get through and will remain inaccessible. This is a simple issue to determine however it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is damaged.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a special chip in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car through a code that only the manufacturer can understand. In the majority of cases, you need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob that is programmed correctly for your car. However, you may find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with most automobiles.
Not working
If your car key fob will not work after having replaced the battery and buttons it could be caused by an electrical issue or a different issue that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith can check for this kind of issue and help you get your key fob back to good working order in a short time. This is usually less expensive than visiting a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will differ based on the model of your car as well as the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can get a rough estimate of the cost by contacting some local businesses prior to booking a job.