10 Key Fob Repair Tricks Experts Recommend

Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob may seem a bit of an extravagance, if it ceases working properly you could be in a tricky spot. It's costly to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.

However, before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated there are a variety of places that can save you money.

Dead Battery

A dead battery for a fob is among the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can be a shock particularly if it occurs when you're leaving to work or at a social gathering. You might have a backup plan, such as an extra key or a number for roadside help but you'll still require a fix or replacement for the fob. It's important to know that the majority of car keyfob battery issues are easily fixable with the right tools.

A majority of modern vehicles come with a backup system that can handle the possibility of a fob battery going bad. If you attach an uncharged fob to the ignition, you will usually start the car key fob repairs. If you have a push-to start vehicle, this will unlock the doors. The owner's guide for your car will provide detailed information about where to put the fob that will start it.

Other reasons for a key fob not responding to press buttons or turning on could be a button which isn't completely pressed or is a battery with a low capacity or a remote which needs to be programmed. In some instances cleaning the device may be all that is needed to make your key fob work again. As key fob buttons get pressed repeatedly, dirt can accumulate and prevent them from being fully pressed.

You can use the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. This can safely be used to open the case and remove the old battery. It is also advisable to keep an extra battery handy, as well as any tool you might need to open up the case for your key fob. This way, you can be prepared in case of any issue with your key fob, so that it won't disrupt your day and cause you to the need to call roadside assistance. Alternatively, you can keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you don't get surprised by a malfunctioning key fob.

Button Issues

When pressed, the buttons on the remote key repairs control transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals won't be sent. The device may stop working. This could occur over time, or could be a result of another issue with the car or fob. A professional will be able to repair or replace the button if it's damaged.

Key fobs are often subject to lots of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed and exposed to cold and heat on a regular basis. They are also quite fragile and can easily be broken. The inside of the key fob contains components such as a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you use it in a way that is excessively.

Most issues can be fixed by changing the battery in the fob, however there are some that require more. The battery can be tested by opening the case of the key fob using an screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or requires replacement. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be purchased at almost any store.

Even a small amount can cause damage to the fob. This can be a problem when you wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and prevent the key fob from functioning.

Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option if there is a problem with the button. They can repair key or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical issues, such as a broken horn or lights that won't turn on.

It's essential to keep up with the latest technology and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be expensive. If you don't do this then your vehicle will not function properly and you will have a much more difficult time getting to where you need to go. Incorrect technology and equipment could also be a security issue and can lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob hasn't worked when you try to start your car it could be because the battery terminals are damaged. The fob has to be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system to unlock and start it. This communication is made through a tiny transmitter that is located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to the internal key (if it exists) that opens the doors and then turns on the engine. The fob can transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, but should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not work.

These are simple solutions. Replacing the battery is typically as simple as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are required and then going to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the right batteries. Some key fobs are hard to open in order to access the batteries, however, and it is important to be cautious to ensure that you don't break any of the components inside.

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 repairs might have been reprogrammed. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and a certain error codes can cause a malfunction in the programming of the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who will reprogram the key to the car.

A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board may be damaged because the key fob had been exposed to heat excessively or other issues. Sometimes, this is because of having work done on your car that accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to further issues, such as a damaged horn or a malfunctioning fob. It is crucial to check the key fob for damage and repair or replace it if needed, as the absence of a functioning key could be extremely stressful and risky.

Other Issues

Car key car repair fobs can be an excellent convenience, however they can also cause problems that require professional assistance. Many of the issues that can be a problem for a car keyfob are simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues and possible solutions:

A dead battery

The most basic remotes can last a long time before requiring replacement batteries, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries need to be replaced every three to four years and can stop functioning if they get too old. This is a simple problem to fix. Just purchase an alternative battery and then install it.

A damaged receiver

The transmitter inside your key fob must receive signals from the vehicle's receiver to open and start it. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not pass through and remain unreadable. This is a simple issue to determine however it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's damaged.

Not programmed

Some modern cars need a special chip in the key fob to allow for start. This chip communicates with the car via a unique code that only the manufacturer can understand. In most cases, a replacement fob needs to be programmed near by the dealer. But, you can locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that work 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 issue or another problem that requires a professional fix. A professional locksmith will be able to check for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back to working order quickly. This is usually less expensive than going to the dealer. The cost of a replacement fob can vary based on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can get a rough idea of the price by contacting several local businesses prior to scheduling a job.