5 Key Fob Repair Lessons From Professionals

Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob may seem a bit of an extravagance, if it ceases functioning properly, you could find yourself in a difficult spot. It's costly to replace it, but in some cases it's the best option.

But before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated, there are several other places you can go that can save you money.

Dead Battery

A dead fob battery is among the most frequent issues with key fobs. This can be a surprise, especially if it happens right before you leave to work or at a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, like an extra key or a number for help at the roadside, but you will still need to fix or replace the fob. It's good to know that the majority of battery issues for car keys are easily fixable with the right knowledge.

Many modern cars have a backup system in place that accounts for 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 own a push-to-start vehicle, this will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your car will contain detailed information about where to put the key fob to start it.

Other causes for the key fob to not respond to button presses or turning on include the button that isn't being completely pressed, a low-capacity battery or a remote that requires programming. In some instances it is possible that a simple clean could be all it takes to make your key fob work again. Because key fob buttons are typically repeatedly pressed, dirt can build up and prevent them from pressing down completely.

You can use the end of a clip to swiftly clean your key fob. This can be used to safely open the case and take out the old battery. Keep an extra battery and any other tools you might need to open the case of your key fob on hand. You can plan for any issues with your keyfob ahead of time, so you do not have to be worried about it affecting your life or calling roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare car key repair shop near me in your pocket to avoid getting taken by surprise when you encounter an issue with your key fob.

Button Issues

When pressed by the buttons on a remote key fob repairs control send signals to its circuit board. If these buttons wear out, the signals may not be sent and your device will stop functioning. This could occur over time, or it could be due to some other issue related to the fob or vehicle. If the button is worn it is possible to replace it or repair it.

Key fobs are often subjected to a lot of abuse. Every day, they are dropped, banged and exposed to heat and cold. They are also quite fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the fob has components like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be destroyed with enough abuse.

Changing the battery in your key fob will usually be enough to fix most problems however, some issues are more complicated than those. The battery can be inspected by opening the case of the key fob with the help of a screwdriver to determine whether it's dirty or requires replacement. The majority of key fobs utilize 3V button cells, which are available in almost every store.

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

A professional locksmith is the best option if you're having issues with a button. They are usually able to fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical issues, such as a broken light or a Horn that isn't working.

It's important to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be expensive. If you don't then your vehicle will not function effectively and you'll be having a harder time getting to where you want to go. It's also a big safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology because it can cause more serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you've tried to start your car but the fob isn't functioning, this may be an indication that the battery terminals are broken. The fob needs to be capable of communicating with the central system of the vehicle in order to unlock and start it. This communication is accomplished by a small transmitter located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted by the fob to an internal key (if it is present) which opens the doors and turns on the engine. The fob can send the signal up to 50 feet away, but should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission may not function.

These are easy fixes. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, identify what type of batteries you require, and then head to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct one. It may be a challenge to open key fobs to access the batteries. Be cautious not to scratch any item.

The next step is to test the key fob again. If the key fob doesn't work the key that is in the fob could be damaged or the key may be reprogrammed. Modern keys are programmed to work with specific vehicles, and certain error code can corrupt the programming of the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who will program the key again to the car.

A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. This can happen when you are working on your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other malfunctions like a broken key fob or a damaged horn. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if required. Not having a working key can be stressful and dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are extremely convenient, but they can also cause issues which require professional repair. Many 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 and possible solutions:

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. Fob batteries need to be changed every three to four years, and they can cease working if they become too old. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to solve - simply buy a new replacement battery and put it in.

Damaged receiver

The transmitter in your key fob must receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle in order to open and start it. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't pass through and remain unreadable. This is an easy issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if damaged.

Not programmed

Certain cars of the present require a specific chip in the key fob in order to start. This chip communicates with the car through a code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In most cases, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. However, you may locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that are compatible with most automobiles.

Not working

If your car key fob will not work after you have replaced the battery and buttons it could be due to an electrical problem or another type of issue that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the issue. This service will normally be less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob can vary based on the model of your car as well as the locksmith you have chosen to use. Check with a few companies in your area to find out the cost before booking the job.