Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car key fob isn't working, you could be in a tough spot. While replacing it with a new one is costly, sometimes it is the most cost-effective option.

But before you head to the dealer to have one of your documents redrawn, there are several other places that can save you money.

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can make people feel a bit uneasy, especially when it happens when you leave for work or heading to a party. There may be a backup plan, like an extra key or number for roadside help however, you will need to fix or replace the fob. The good news is that the majority of car key fob battery problems are easily fixable with the right tools.

Many modern cars have a backup system in place that can handle the possibility of a fob battery going bad. If you connect a dead fob to the ignition, you are able to typically start the vehicle. If you have a vehicle that has push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's guide for your car will provide detailed information about where to put the key fob to start it.

Other reasons for keys that don't turn on or respond to the button presses include a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote controller that requires reprogramming. In some cases cleaning your key fob might be enough to get it functioning again. Because key fob buttons are frequently repeatedly pressed dirt can accumulate and stop them from pressing down to the fullest extent.

You can make use of the end of a clip clean your key fob. This can safely be used to open up the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any tools you may require to open the case of your key fob in your possession. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob in advance, so that you do not have to worry about it affecting your life or having to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get surprised when you encounter problems 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. The fob could cease to function. This can happen over time or may be due to another issue with the car or fob. If the button has worn out or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs are often subject to a lot of abuse. Everyday, they're dropped, banged and exposed to heat and cold. They're also very fragile and easily damaged. The inside of the fob is filled with components like circuit boards and battery contacts that can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.

Changing the battery in your key fob will usually be enough to resolve most issues however some issues are more complicated than that. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob with a screwdriver and determining whether it's dirty or requires replacing. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought in nearly any store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only a small amount of water. This could be a problem in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally run it through the washing machine. This could cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to stop functioning.

If you're dealing with an issue with your button the best solution is to speak with an expert locksmith. They can repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical issues, such as the broken light or sound horn that isn't working.

It's important to stay up-to-date with the most recent technology and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. If you don't do this, your vehicle won't function effectively and you'll encounter a more difficult time getting to where you want to go. It's also a big safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology since it could cause more serious mechanical issues down the road.

Broken Battery 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 has to be capable of communicating 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 to the internal car key (if there is one), which in turn opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, if the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission will not work.

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

Then, test the key fob again. If the key fob still doesn't work the key that is in the fob could be damaged or the key may have been reprogrammed. Modern keys have to be programmed to function with a particular vehicle and certain error codes may affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.

A damaged fob is a second possibility, particularly if fob was dropped or left out in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob was exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. This could happen when you have work done to your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other problems, like a damaged key fob or broken horn. Examine your key fob and replace or repair it if required. The absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs can be a great convenience, but they can also cause problems that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the problems that could be afflict the car key fob are fairly simple and cost-effective to fix. Here are some of the most common problems and possible solutions:

A car key remote repair near me dead battery

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

Damaged receiver

To open and start your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob has to receive a message from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will be unable to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is too damaged.

Not programmed

Some modern cars require a special chip inside the key fob for it to start. The chip communicates to the car using a unique code that is only recognized by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, you need to go to the dealer to purchase an alternative fob that has been properly programmed for your vehicle. But, you can locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that are compatible with most vehicles.

Not working

If your car key fob does not work after having replaced the battery and buttons, it could be due to an electrical problem or a different problem that requires a professional fix. A locksmith professional can check for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back to good working order in a short time. This service is usually cheaper than going to a dealer. The cost of replacing a fob will differ based on the model of your car and the locksmith you use locally. You can get a rough idea of the costs by contacting some local businesses prior to booking a job.