A Guide To Key Fob Repair In 2023
Car Key Fob Repair Service
While the car key fob might seem a bit of an incidental item, if it stops working properly you could find yourself in a difficult spot. It's costly to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.
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 battery on a key fob is one of the most common issues with key fobs. It can make people feel a bit uneasy 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 additional key or a number for roadside help, but you will still have to repair or replace the fob. It's a good idea to know that most battery issues for car keys can be easily fixed with the right tools.
Many modern cars come with a backup system that accounts for the possibility of a fob battery going bad. Usually when you hold the dead fob to the ignition button and press it, you'll be able to start the car. If you have a push-to-start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your car will provide detailed information about where to place the key fob to start it.
Other causes of a key fob that won't respond or turn on to the button presses include buttons that aren't being depressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote controller that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances cleaning your key fob could be enough to get it functioning again. Because key fob buttons are frequently pressed over and over again, dirt can accumulate and stop them from pressing down to the fullest extent.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch could be to use the tip of the paper clip. You can use it to open the case safely and remove your old battery. You should also keep an extra battery handy and any tool you might require to open the case of your key fob. You can plan for any issues with your keyfob in advance, so that you do not have to worry about it affecting your life or calling roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get surprised by a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed on remote controls send signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent and your device will stop functioning. This can occur over time, or could be a result of some other issue with the fob or car. A professional can fix or replace the button if it's damaged.
Key fobs typically see a lot of abuse. Every day, they are dropped, banged, and exposed both to cold and hot. car key repair cost and can easily be broken. The inside of the key fob contains components such as a circuitboard and battery contacts that can be damaged if you abuse it enough.
Most problems can be resolved by changing the battery in your fob, however there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to remove the fob case and determine whether it's required to be replaced or cleaned. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be purchased in nearly any store.
Even a tiny amount of water can cause damage to the fob. This could 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 could damage the chip and stop the key fob from working.
A professional locksmith is the best option if there is an issue with a button. They can fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also address other electrical problems like the broken light or sound horn that isn't working.
It's essential to keep up with the most recent technology and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be expensive. If you don't the vehicle won't work properly and you will have a much more difficult getting to where you want to go. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also be a security issue and can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've tried to start your car and the fob isn't working it could be a sign that the battery terminals are damaged. The fob has to be capable of communicating with the central system of the vehicle to unlock and start it. This communication is carried out through a tiny transmitter that is located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it exists), which unlocks the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, when the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not function.
These are simple fixes. Replacing the battery is generally as simple as removing the old battery, figuring out what type of replacement batteries are needed and then going to an auto parts store or online retailer for the correct batteries. Certain key fobs are difficult to open to get access to the batteries however, and it pays to be careful so that you do not break anything inside.
The next step is to try the key fob a second time. If it doesn't work, it is possible that the key's metal part inside the fob has been damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys need to be programmed to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes may corrupt the programming in the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who will program the key again to the vehicle.
A damaged fob is a second possibility, particularly if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could be damaged because the key fob had been exposed to heat excessively, or other problems. This can happen when you have work done to your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other malfunctions like a broken key fob or a broken horn. Examine your key fob and replace it or repair it if required. The absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have but they also cause problems that need professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of issues that can affect keys for cars are relatively simple and inexpensive to solve. Here are some of the most frequent problems, and possible solutions.
A dead battery
The most basic remotes can last for a long time before requiring replacement batteries, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. The batteries for fobs must be replaced every three to four years, and they can cease functioning if they get too old. Luckily this is a simple solution - just buy a new replacement battery and install it.
A damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob has to receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle in order to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't get through and will remain unreadable. This is an easy issue to diagnose however, if the receiver is too damaged, it may be necessary to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain cars of the present require a specific chip in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with your car using a unique code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In the majority of cases, a replacement key fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. There are aftermarket fobs that can be used with a variety of 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 another type of problem that requires a professional fix. A locksmith professional will be able to look for this kind of issue and get your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This service is usually cheaper 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 use locally. You can get a rough idea of the costs by speaking with a few local companies before making a booking.