Key Fob Repair Near Me
Your car's key fob gets lots of wear and tear. This is why it's crucial to have a backup ready in the event that yours fails.
The most common issue is a dead or low battery. There are other possible reasons that your key fob isn't functioning. Many automakers offer instructions on how to replace the battery in the fobs.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
One of the most frequent reasons for the key fob's slow response is that its battery has died. If you notice that you have to push the unlock button several times before your car is able to respond, or it's unable to lock the distance it once could, it's probably time for an upgrade to the battery. The good news is that unlike the battery in your car, it's fairly simple to replace a key fob's battery yourself.
Press the unlock button several times to ensure that the fob is functioning. Once you're sure that it isn't down to being out of range it's possible to try a few things to revive it. First, make sure you have the fob. If there is enough power in the battery, you can turn it on it by pressing it against the door handle.
The battery type will be embossed onto the key fob. It's usually a button, sold by brands like Duracell and Energizer. Once you've got the correct battery, you can remove the old one and put the new one in place with the positive side facing upwards. Snap the fob halves together and test the lock/unlock/start function.
If you want to be sure you're protected take the fob to a repair shop or your dealership to replace its battery. This will probably cost you a little more than if doing it yourself but it's best to let someone else handle it to ensure you don't end up damaging the circuit board when you're trying to open the key fob to change the battery.
If how to repair car key lock 'd prefer to save money, you can buy a CR2032 battery at a hardware store or big box retailer, and then follow the instructions in the owner's manual (which is likely to be available online as PDFs via the website of the manufacturer or at a minimum on YouTube) to swap out the battery on your fob by yourself. It's a simple process and will restore all the handy remote function that you rely on for your journeys around Springfield.
Buttons Damaged
While it may seem odd that the key fob in your car needs maintenance it is true that they are. Most of the time, these issues aren't too serious and it can be as easy as replacing the battery. However there are other problems that could occur which might indicate that the key fob needs more attention.
The power button could be the reason behind your key fob not working or the buttons not functioning. Cell buttons can get damaged from wear and tear, and the internal components may be broken or knocked out. There are DIY kits to replace power buttons, however it isn't easy to work with such small and delicate components. It's also risky to attempt to replace the power button because you run the risk of damaging the circuitry.
There are some locksmiths for cars who have specialized equipment to handle this type of repair and they can usually complete it while you wait. They can fix the buttons in a matter of minutes and make them look as good as new.
In the event that a professional isn't an option, you can purchase aftermarket key fobs that appear identical to the original key fob at only a fraction of the cost. Some dealers and retailers allow you to program these with your vehicle, whereas others don't. Genesky can program his fobs for most cars manufactured since the 1990s, but he cannot program them with the latest Audi or BMW models.
It is also essential to look over your vehicle's warranty basic extended warranties, roadside assistance coverage to see if they cover the cost of a replacement key fob or at the very least some of the charges. This will determine if it's worth paying for a repair or a replacement key fob.
Problems with the Circuitry
Your key fob experiences lots of abuse and stress when you use it, since it is thrown around, tossed and exposed to heat and cold every day. This can cause damage to internal components, especially the tiny electronic circuit board inside that sends signals to your car. Depending on how badly damaged these signals are they may cease to function and stop you from opening your doors or starting your vehicle.
If you've tried replacing the battery, but it's still not working the fob might need to be reprogrammed specifically for your specific make and model. This can be done either through a dealer, or a professional shop with experience with your vehicle. This is a very simple procedure that takes only a few moments to complete.
Another possibility is that the fob casing is worn out, which may 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 away over time, or snap off completely. A replacement casing is an easy fix that should restore your fob to proper functionality.
Sometimes, your key fob only needs to be reprogrammed to reflect the current year model, model, and make of your vehicle. This is a simple solution that you can accomplish at home or with an expert if you have an extra fob. The procedure is easy and involves only following some instructions from the website of your manufacturer or the local dealership service center.
If your key fob is not working properly, you may need to replace it. This is more expensive and requires a trip to an independent shop or dealer that is familiar with your specific make and model. If your key fob does not function properly, replacing it is the most effective solution. You don't need to worry about getting stuck in a bind. Depending on the make and model, replacements could vary in cost from $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
While it's not ideal that your car key fob will not always work, it's important to be aware that the majority of problems are fairly simple and can be repaired. A dead fob battery is one of the most common issues. It can be quickly replaced and get you back on the road quickly. To prevent this issue from happening in the future, it's best to keep extra batteries in your vehicle so that you can replace them if required.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery of a key fob, but it can be a bit tricky if it is your first time. Begin by determining what type of battery your key fob uses to ensure you choose the right battery for it. The information is generally available online, but you should also check the owner's manual of your vehicle when you are unsure. Once you've determined the type of battery your key fob needs then you can go to a local retailer or home improvement center to purchase it. These kinds of batteries are generally very affordable, so it's a good idea to have plenty of them in your inventory. When you receive your new battery, be sure to place it into your key fob in the correct way. This will ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) signs are facing the same direction as they were with your old battery. After you have installed your new battery, snap the key fob back together and test it.
Replacing a key fob battery is a fairly simple task, and you can do it on your own when you are able to do it. However, if you cannot figure out what is wrong with your key fob or the device is not functioning after changing the battery, it could be time to contact an expert for a professional replacement. It is always a great idea to repair your keyfob prior to buying a replacement. However, this might not be feasible. In these cases it is cheaper to purchase a replacement from an online retailer.