Key Fob Repair Near Me
Your car's key fob gets a lot of wear and tear. That's why it's important to have a backup in case yours stops working.
The most frequent issue is a dead or low battery. However, there are other causes for your key fob not functioning. Some automakers allow you to swap out the battery in their fobs, and instructions are usually available on the Internet.
Dead Key Fob Battery
One of the main reasons for a key fob's slow response is that its battery has gone out of service. It's time to replace your battery if are finding yourself pressing the unlock button several times before your car responds, or the key fob isn't locking as tightly as it used to. The good news is that unlike the battery in your car, it's relatively simple to replace a key fob battery yourself.
The first thing you should do is check that the fob works by pressing the unlock button several times. If you're confident that it's not malfunctioning because it's out of range, there are a few things you can do to revive it. First, make sure you have the fob with you. You can usually activate it by pressing it against the door handle on your driver's side If there's enough juice in the battery to activate the door locks, even if you can't unlock it from two car lengths away.
Make sure you have the right type of battery, which will be embossed on the fob. It's typically a type of battery known as the button cell. Brands such as Duracell or Energizer sell them. When you have the correct battery, you can remove the old one and replace it with the new one. Make sure that the positive side is facing upwards. The fob halves should be snapped together and test the lock/unlock/start functions.
If you want to be extra safe and secure, take the fob along to a watch repair shop or your local car dealership and ask them to change the battery for you. It will cost more to have someone who is not you replace the battery than if it was done by you, but you won't damage the circuit board if you do it yourself.
If you'd prefer to save money, you can buy a CR2032 battery from a hardware store or big box retailer, and follow the directions in your owner's guide (which is likely available online as PDFs on the manufacturer's website or, at the very least, on YouTube) to change out the battery of your fob yourself. It's a simple procedure that will restore the functions of the remote that you use so often on your trips around Springfield.
Buttons Damaged
Although it might seem odd that the key fob inside your car requires maintenance, they are. These issues are typically not serious and can be fixed by replacing the battery. Other issues could arise that may indicate that the keyfob needs more attention.
If your key fob isn't turning on or the buttons aren't working there could be an issue with the power button. Cell buttons are subject to a lot of abuse due to wear and tear, and the internal components could be smashed or damaged causing the button to fail. There are DIY kits to replace power buttons, but it can be difficult to work with these small and delicate parts. It's also dangerous to try and replace the power button as you risk damaging the circuitry.
There are some locksmiths for cars who have specialized equipment to deal with this kind of repair and they can typically complete the repair while you wait. They can fix the buttons and get them looking as good as new in just a few minutes.
If you're not ready to employ an expert or even a professional, you can purchase aftermarket key fobs for a small cost. They're exactly like the original key fob. Some retailers in the automotive industry and dealerships will allow you to have them programmed with your vehicle but others do not. Genesky can program his fobs for the majority of vehicles manufactured after the 1990s, however they are not compatible with the most recent Audi or BMW models.
It's also important to check your vehicle's basic warranty and extended warranties as well as roadside assistance coverage to determine if they cover the cost of a replacement key fob or at the very least some of the costs. This will allow you to determine if it's worth the cost of a key fob repair or just getting a replacement altogether.
Issues with the Circuitry
You use your key fob every day, which means that it is subjected to a lot abuse and stress. It gets dropped, jostled and exposed to heat or cold. This can cause damage to internal components that include the tiny electronic circuitry which sends signals to the car. Depending on how badly damaged the signals are, they may stop working and prevent you from opening doors or even starting your car.
If you've tried to replace the battery and it still doesn't work, there is the possibility that your fob has to be reprogrammed for your specific make and model of vehicle. This can be done by a dealer or a professional repair car key remote shop with experience with your vehicle. This is a very simple procedure that takes only few minutes to complete.
Another possibility is that your fob casing could be damaged, which could cause it to lose contact with the internal components. The casing contains contacts, which are rubber-like components coated in electricity-conducting film that assist with sending the signal to your car. They can wear out over time, or snap completely. A replacement casing is an easy solution that can bring your device back to its original function.
Sometimes your key fob requires reprogramming with the current year model, model, and make of your vehicle. If you have a spare fob this is a simple fix that can be accomplished at home or by an expert. The process is generally easy and requires only following a few steps from your manufacturer's website or the service center.
It is possible that your key car repair fob needs to be replaced entirely, but this is often more expensive and can require visiting the dealer or an independent shop that has expertise in your particular brand and model. Replacing a key fob generally the best option when it isn't working correctly and you do not want to risk being stuck somewhere. Replacements can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 depending on the model and make.
Replacement
It is unfortunate that your fob's key does not always work. However, you can repair the majority of problems. A dead battery in the fob is one of the most frequent problems. It is quickly replaced and get you back on the road fast. To avoid this problem from happening in the future, it is recommended to keep extra batteries on hand to replace them if needed.
It's fairly easy to replace a key fob's battery, but it can be difficult if this is the first time you've done it. Begin by determining what type of battery your key fob uses, as this will help to choose the correct battery for it. You can typically find this information on the internet however, it's helpful to look in your car's manual if you are unsure. You can buy the battery at an store for home improvement or a general store after you have decided the type of key fob your requires. It's a good idea to have a variety of these batteries in your inventory, as they are usually inexpensive. When you receive your new battery, make sure to put it in your key fob in a proper manner. This will ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) signs are facing in the same direction as they were with your old battery. After you've inserted the new battery, you can then snap your key fob back together and check that it works properly.
Replacing a key fob battery is a relatively simple task, and you'll be able to do it on your own if you know how to repair car key fob to do it. If you're unable to identify the issue the fob or it doesn't work after replacing the batteries, it might be time to call an expert to replace it professionally. While it is always a good idea to try and fix your key fob before purchasing a replacement, there are times when it isn't possible and it is cheaper to purchase one at a dealership.