Key Fob Repair Near Me
The key fob in your car gets a lot of wear and tear. That's why it's important to have a backup ready in the event that yours ceases to function.
The most common problem is a dead or low battery. However, there may be other reasons that cause your key fob not working. Many automakers provide instructions on how to replace the battery on the fobs.
Dead Key Fob Battery
One of the main reasons for the key fob's slow response is that the battery has gone out of service. If you find that you need to press the unlock button several times before your car responds or it can't lock from the distance it used to, it's probably time for a new battery. The good news is that, unlike your car's battery, it's fairly simple to replace a key fob battery yourself.
The first thing you should do is verify whether the fob is actually working by pressing the unlock button a few times. Once you're sure it isn't due to being out of range it's possible to try a few things to bring it back to life. First, ensure you have the fob with you. It is usually activated by pressing it against your driver's side door handle if there's enough power left in the battery to trigger the door locks even if you are unable to unlock it from 2 car lengths away.
Then, ensure that you have the correct type of battery, which will be embossed on the fob. It's typically a type of battery known as button cells. Brands like Duracell or Energizer sell these. Once you have the right battery, take out your old one and replace it with the new one. Make sure that the positive side is facing up. Re-snap the fob halves together and test to ensure that the lock/unlock and start functions are working properly again.
If you want to be sure you're safe take the fob to a watch repair shop or a dealership to replace its battery. It's more expensive to let someone else replace the battery than if it was performed by you, but you won't damage the circuit board if you do it yourself.
If you'd prefer to save cost, you can purchase a CR2032 battery at a hardware store or big box retailer, and follow the steps in your owner's guide (which is likely accessible online as PDFs on the manufacturer's site or at a minimum on YouTube) to replace the battery of your fob yourself. It's an easy procedure and will restore the useful functions of the remote you use so often on your excursions around Springfield.
Buttons Damaged
While it may seem strange that the key fob inside your car needs to be maintained however, they are. electronic car key repair are generally not serious and can be solved by replacing the battery. Other issues may be noticed that indicate the keyfob is in need of attention.
If your key fob isn't turning on or the buttons aren't working it could be due to a problem with the power button. Cell buttons can be subjected to a beating due to wear and tear and the internal components can be damaged or ripped loose and cause the button to fail. There are kits for DIY for replacing power buttons but working with these tiny and delicate pieces are not easy to say the least. It is also dangerous to attempt to replace the power button as you run the risk of damaging the circuitry.
Some locksmiths in the automotive industry have equipment for this type of repair, and can complete the task while you're waiting. They can fix the buttons in a matter of minutes and make them appear as good as new.
In the event that you don't have the luxury of a professional You can buy aftermarket key fobs that appear exactly like your original key fob for only a fraction of the cost. Some automotive retailers and some 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.
Examine your car's warranty to determine if it covers the cost of a replacement key fob, or at least a portion of the costs. This will help you to decide whether it is worth paying for a key fob repair or just buying a new one.
Issues with the Circuitry
The key fob you use for your keys takes many abuses and stress while you use it. This is because it is dropped, jostled, and exposed to cold and hot every day. This can cause damage to internal components, including the tiny electronic circuit board within which sends signals to your car. Depending on the damage, these signals could cease to function properly and hinder you from opening your doors or starting your car.
If you've tried replacing the battery, but it doesn't work, your fob may need to be reprogrammed specifically for your specific make and model. This can be done by a dealer or professional shop that has experience with your vehicle. The procedure is usually very simple and only takes about a couple of minutes to complete.
The casing of your fob may also be worn out and lose contact with 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. The casings can become worn down over time or even snap completely. A simple replacement casing should make your device functional again.
Sometimes the fob has to be changed with the current year model, make, and model of your vehicle. This is a simple fix that you can do at your home or with a professional if you have an extra fob. The procedure is generally simple and involves only following a few steps from the website of your manufacturer or your local dealership's service center.
It's possible that your key fob needs to be replaced completely, but this is often more expensive and may require a visit to the dealer or an independent shop that has expertise in your particular make and model. Replacement of a key fob is generally the best option when it's not functioning properly and you do not want to risk being stuck somewhere. Depending on the brand and model, replacements can range in price from around $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
While it's not ideal that the car key fob doesn't always function, it's important to know that the majority of issues are relatively easy to fix and can be fixed. A dead battery in the fob is one of the most common problems. It is easily replaced and will get you back on the road in no time. It is a good idea to have extra batteries available so that you can easily replace them when needed.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery of a key fob however, it can be difficult if this is your first time. You must be aware of the type of battery that is required for your key fob before you can buy the correct battery. You can usually find this information on the internet however it can be helpful to look in the manual for your car if are unsure. You can buy the battery at a store for home improvement or a general store after you have decided what kind of key fob requires. It is a good thing to have a variety of these batteries available since they're usually very cheap. After you have received the new battery, be sure to insert it into your key fob with the correct orientation. This will ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) indicators are facing in the same direction as they were with your old battery. Once you have inserted the new battery, you can then connect your key fob together and test it to make sure that it is working properly.
Replacing a key fob battery is an easy task, and you can do it yourself when you know how to do so. If you are unable to find out what's wrong the fob or it does not work after changing the batteries, it could be time to contact an expert to replace it professionally. It is always a great idea to fix your key fob prior to buying an alternative. However, this might not be feasible. In these instances it is more economical to buy one from an authorized dealer.