Why Key Fob Repair Is More Difficult Than You Imagine

Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car key fob isn't working it could put you in a difficult situation. While replacing it with a brand new key fob can be expensive but sometimes it's the best option.

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

Dead Battery

A dead battery for a fob is one of the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can make people feel a bit uneasy and can be a real shock, particularly while you're leaving for work or heading out to a social gathering. You may have a back-up plan, like an additional key or a number for assistance at the roadside but you'll still need to fix or replace the fob. It's a good idea to know that most car keyfob battery issues can be easily fixed with the right knowledge.

A lot of modern cars have a backup system that allows for the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. If you hold an uncharged fob to the ignition, you can usually start the vehicle. If you have a push-to-start vehicle, this will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you detailed instructions on how to use the key fob.

Other causes for a key fob that doesn't be able to turn on or respond 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 cases, a simple cleaning may be all it takes to make your key fob work again. Because key fob buttons are frequently repeatedly pressed, dirt can build up that prevents them from pressing down all the way.

A quick method to clean your key fob in a pinch could be to make use of the end of the paper clip. It is safe to open the case and remove the old battery. You should also consider keeping an extra battery handy, as well as any tool you might require to open the key fob case. This way, you'll be ready for an issue with your key fob, so that it won't disrupt your day and cause you to have to call for roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't get shocked by a malfunctioning key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob transmit signals to the remote's circuit board when they are hit. If the buttons wear out, the signals might not be sent and the fob won't be functioning. This could happen over time or be caused by another issue with the car or fob. If the button has worn out it is possible to replace it or repair it.

Key fobs are often subject to a lot of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and hot every day. They're also quite fragile and can be easily broken. The inside of the fob is filled with components like circuit boards and battery contacts, which can be destroyed with enough abuse.

Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to resolve most issues, but certain issues are more complex than that. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the fob case and determine whether it's required to be replaced or cleaned. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries, car key Fob repair Service which can be purchased at almost any store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just a small amount of water. This can be a concern when you accidentally wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could damage the transponder chip within and cause the key fob to stop working.

If you're experiencing a problem with a button, your best option is to contact a professional locksmith. They can usually repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They also can fix other electrical failures like the horn that is broken or lights that won't work.

Cars are expensive, therefore it's essential to stay up to date with technology and equipment that makes them run. If you don't, the vehicle will not function properly and it will be difficult to get to where you're supposed to be. It's also a major risk to be a victim of defective equipment and technology because it could cause more serious mechanical issues down the road.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you have been trying to start your car but the fob hasn't been working it could be a sign that your battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start your car, the fob must be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. This communication is done through a small radio transmitter within the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted through the fob to the internal key (if it is present) which opens the doors and then turns on the engine. The fob is designed to be able to transmit this signal up 50 feet, however the transmission may not function when the battery terminals have been damaged.

These are simple fixes. It is generally easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, figure out the kind of batteries you need, and then visit an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the appropriate batteries. Some key fobs are hard to open to access the batteries, however, it's important to be cautious to ensure that you don't damage anything inside.

The next step is to test the key fob a second time. If it doesn't work, it is possible that the key made of metal inside the fob has been damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys are programmed to work with certain vehicles, and certain error code can corrupt the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key for the vehicle.

A damaged fob is a second possibility, particularly if fob was placed in a container or Car Key Fob Repair Service left out in the rain. The circuit board may have failed due to the fact that the key fob had been exposed to excessive heat, or other problems. Sometimes, this is because of having work done on your vehicle, which exposed wires, which could lead to further issues, such as a damaged horn or malfunctioning key fob. It is important to check your key fob for damage and repair or replace it if necessary, since the absence of a functioning key could be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they may also cause problems that require professional repair. A lot of the issues that may affect a car keyfob are simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are a few of the most common problems with their solutions.

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. Fob batteries are typically required to be replaced every three or four years, and they can easily stop working when they're old. Fortunately this is a simple problem to solve - simply buy a new replacement battery and install it.

A damaged receiver

To open and start your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob has to receive a message from the receiver in your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not pass through and remain inaccessible. This is a simple problem to determine, however, if the receiver is damaged, it could be necessary for you to replace it.

Not programmed

Certain cars of the present require a special chip in the key fob in order to start. This chip communicates to the car via a unique code that is only recognized by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, you have to visit the dealership to obtain the replacement fob properly programmed for your vehicle. You can find replacement fobs that can be used with a wide range of vehicles.

Not working

If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still does not work it could be an electrical issue or other type of issue that requires professional attention. A locksmith expert can swiftly solve the issue by looking for the problem. This will typically be cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob will vary depending on the model of your vehicle key repairs and the locksmith you use locally. Check with a few companies in your area to find out the cost prior to booking an appointment.