15 Shocking Facts About Key Fob Repair That You've Never Heard Of
Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car key fob stops working you may be in a bind. It can be expensive to replace it, but often it's the best option.
You can save money by going to other places before you go to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most common problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can be a shock particularly if it occurs just as you're leaving for work or a social gathering. You may have a back-up plan, like an extra key or a number for help at the roadside but you'll still have to repair or replace the fob. The good news is that most car key fob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right information.
Many modern cars have a backup system that can handle the possibility of a fob battery going bad. Usually when you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button and press it, you'll be able to start the car. If you have a push-to-start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will provide detailed instructions on how you can use the key fob.
Other causes for keys that don't turn on or respond to button press events include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some instances it is possible that a simple clean could suffice to make your key fob work again. When key fob buttons are repeatedly pressed, dirt may accumulate and prevent them from being fully pressed.
You can make use of the end of a clip to swiftly clean your key fob. It is safe to open the case and take out the old battery. It is also advisable to keep an additional battery on hand, as well as any tool you might need to open up the key fob case. This way, you'll be ready for a problem with your key fob so that it won't disrupt your day and cause you to need to call for roadside assistance. Alternatively, you can keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure that you aren't 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 become worn out, signals may not be sent. The fob could cease to function. This can occur over time or be caused by an issue with your car or fob. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's worn.
Key fobs are often subjected to a lot abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and heat every day. They're also very fragile and can easily be broken. The inside of the fob has parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be destroyed if abused enough.
Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to remove the case of the fob and determine whether it's required to be replaced or cleaned. Most key fobs use 3V button cells that are available in almost every store.
Even a small amount can harm the fob. This could be a problem when you accidentally wash your key fob or go swimming with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and stop the key fob from working.
If you're dealing with a button issue, your best option is to call an expert locksmith. They are usually able to repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical problems, like the horn that is broken or lights that won't turn on.
Automobiles are costly, so it's essential to stay up to date with technology and equipment that makes them run. If you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and it will be more difficult to get there you're required to be. Incorrect technology and equipment could also pose a risk to safety, as it can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you have been trying to start your car, but the fob isn't working this could be a sign that the battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the vehicle, the fob needs to be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This is accomplished via a small radio transmitter that is 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 up to 50 feet away, however should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission will not work.
Luckily, these are easy fixes. Replacing the battery is generally straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out which replacement batteries are needed and then heading to an auto parts retailer or online store to find the right batteries. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to get to the batteries. Be careful not to break anything.
The next step is to test the key fob once more. If it still doesn't work it could be that the metal key itself inside the fob is damaged or that the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys must be programmed to work with certain vehicles, and certain error code can corrupt the programming of the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who can re-program the key to the car.
A damaged fob is another possibility, especially if the fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was subjected to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this can be the result of work that was done to your vehicle that exposed wires, which could lead to further issues, such as a damaged horn or a malfunctioning key fob. Make sure nearby key repair shop check your key fob, and replace or repair it if necessary. In the absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are an excellent convenience, however they can also cause problems that require professional repair. Luckily, many of the issues that can plague a car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to repair. Here are a few of the most common problems and solutions for them:
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries need to be replaced every three or four years, and they can cease functioning if they get too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix. Just purchase an alternative battery and then install it.
A damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob needs to receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not pass through and remain unreadable. This is a straightforward problem to determine, but if the receiver is too damaged, it may be necessary for you to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a specific chip in the key fob to allow for start. The chip communicates to the car using an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. You can find replacement fobs that work with a wide range of vehicles.
Not working
If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still doesn't work, it could be an electrical issue or other issue that requires professional attention. A locksmith expert can swiftly resolve the issue by examining for the problem. This service is usually cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a new fob is contingent on the model of your car and the local locksmith. You can get an idea of the price by speaking with a few local companies before booking a job.