Car Key Fob Repair Service

If the car key fob doesn't work you may be in a tough spot. It's expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.

You can save money by visiting other places before you go to the dealer.

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can be a surprise to people and can be a real shock, particularly while you're leaving for work or heading out to a social event. Even if you have an alternative plan in place, such as an extra key or phone number to call roadside assistance it is likely that you will need to get the fob repaired or replaced. The positive side is that the majority of car key fob battery issues can be fixed with the right information.

Many modern cars have a backup system in place that allows for the possibility of a fob battery going bad. If you connect an uncharged fob to the ignition, you can usually start the car. If you have a push-to start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will include specific information on where to put the fob that will start it.

Other reasons for a key fob not responding to button presses or turning on could be the button that isn't being completely pressed or a battery that isn't fully charged, or a remote that requires programming. In some cases, a simple cleaning may be all that is needed to get your key fob working again. Because key fob buttons are often repeatedly pressed the dirt may build up that prevents them from pressing all the way.

A quick way to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to use the tip of a paper clip. It is safe to open up the case and take out the old battery. You should also keep an additional battery on hand, as well as any tool you'll require to open the case of your key fob. This way, you'll be prepared in case of a problem with your key fob, so that it doesn't interrupt your day and cause you to have the need to call roadside assistance. Keep a spare car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get surprised in the event of an issue with your key fob.

Button Issues

When pressed on remote key repairs controls transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals won't be sent. The device may stop working. This could 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 exposed to a lot of abuse. Every day, they're damaged, thrown around, and exposed both to heat and cold. They are also quite fragile and could easily be damaged. The inside of the key fob contains components like a circuitboard and battery contacts that can be destroyed if you use it in a way that is excessively.

Changing the battery in your key fob is typically enough to resolve most issues however, some issues are more complicated than that. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to remove the case of the fob and determine if it needs to be replaced or cleaned. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells that can be found in nearly every store.

Even a small amount of force can harm the fob. This can be a problem when you accidentally wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This can damage the transponder chip within and cause the key fob to stop working.

Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if you're having a problem with a button. They can fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical issues, such as lighting problems or a horn that won't work.

It's important to stay up-to-date with the most recent technology and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be costly. When you don't, your vehicle will not function properly and it will be more difficult to get there you're supposed to be. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a safety issue and can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you have been trying to start your car, but the fob hasn't been working this could be an indication that the battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the car, the fob has to be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This communication is accomplished by a small transmitter located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) and it opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to send this signal up 50 feet, however the transmission may not work if the battery terminals have been damaged.

Luckily, these are easy fixes. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, figure out what type of batteries you need, and then go to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the appropriate one. Some key fobs are hard to open to access the batteries, however, and it pays to be cautious to ensure that you don't damage anything inside.

The next step is to try the key fob once more. If the key fob still does not work, the metal key inside the fob could be damaged or the key might have been reprogrammed. Modern keys have to be programmed to function with a particular vehicle and certain error codes may cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, especially if it was dropped or left in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this is because of having work done on your vehicle that left exposed wires, which could then lead to other issues, such as a damaged horn or malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if required. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are an excellent convenience, however they can also cause issues that require professional assistance. Many of the issues that may cause problems with a car keyfob can be simple and affordable to fix. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues and their possible solutions:

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and can easily stop working when they're too old. This is a simple issue to fix - just buy the replacement battery and install.

Damaged receiver

The transmitter inside your key fob must receive an input from the vehicle's receiver in order to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is a simple issue to diagnose 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, you must visit the dealership to get a replacement fob that is correct for your car. However, you may find aftermarket fobs online that are compatible with all vehicles.

Not working

If your car key fob will not work after having replaced the battery and buttons, it could be caused by an electrical issue or another type of issue that requires professional assistance to fix. A professional locksmith can check for this type of issue and get your key fob back in working order quickly. This will typically be cheaper than a trip the dealership. The cost of a replacement fob can vary based on the model of your car as well as your local locksmith. You can get a good idea of the price by checking with a few local companies before making a booking.