Key Fob Repair Near Me
The key fob of your car will experience lots of wear and tear. That's why it's important to have a backup ready in the event that yours fails.
The most common issue is an unresponsive or dead battery. There are many other reasons that your key fob may not be working. Many automakers offer instructions on how to replace the battery in the fobs.
Dead Key Fob Battery
A dead battery is among the most common causes for a keyfob that is slow. It's time to replace your battery if find yourself having to press the unlock button a few times before your car responds or the key fob isn't locking as tightly as it used to. The good news is that unlike your car's battery, it's relatively simple to replace a key fob's battery yourself.
The first thing to do is check that the fob works by pressing the unlock button several times. Once you're sure it hasn't just stopped working due to being out of range then you can try some things to bring it back to life. Ensure you have your fob. You can usually activate it by putting it on the handle of your driver's side door if there's enough power left in the battery to trigger the door locks even if you're unable to unlock it from 2 car lengths away.
Make sure you have the correct type of battery, which will be embossed on the fob. It's typically a type of battery known as the button cell. Brands like Duracell or Energizer sell these. Once you've got the correct battery, remove the old one and place the new one in with the positive side facing upwards. Re-snap the fob halves together and then test it to make sure the lock/unlock and start functions are working correctly.
If you would like to be extra secure then you can take the fob along to a watch repair shop or your local car dealership and ask them to change the battery on your behalf. It's likely to cost you a little more than if doing it yourself, but it's a good idea have someone else do it so you don't end up damaging the circuit board while you're trying to open the key fob to swap the battery.
You can save money by buying a CR2032 from a big box retailer or hardware store. Follow the instructions on the owner's manual (which is available online in PDF format on the manufacturer's website, or on YouTube) to change the battery on the fob. This is a simple process that will bring back the remote functionality that you've been using for your Springfield trips.
Damaged Buttons
Although it might seem odd that the key fob in your car needs maintenance it is true that they do. Most of the time, these issues aren't too serious and it can be as simple as replacing the battery. However, there are other problems that could be noticed that could indicate that the key fob requires more attention.
If your key fob won't turn on or the buttons aren't working it could be due to a problem with the power button. Cell buttons are subject to a lot of abuse due to wear and tear and the internal components may be smashed or damaged which can cause the button to fail. There are DIY kits for replacing power buttons, however it isn't easy to work with these small and delicate components. It is also dangerous to try and replace the power button because you run the risk of damaging the circuitry.
Some automotive locksmiths have specialized equipment for this type of repair and are able to finish the repair while you are waiting. They can fix the buttons and have them looking like new in a matter of minutes.
If hiring a professional isn't an option, you can purchase aftermarket key fobs that look identical to the original key fob for less than half the cost. Certain automotive stores and dealerships will allow you to program them with your vehicle, while others do not. Genesky claims that he can program his fobs for most automobiles manufactured prior to the '90s however he must turn away customers with newer Audi or BMW models since he doesn't have the required programming equipment.
Verify the warranty of your vehicle to see whether it covers the cost of replacing a key fob, or at the very least some of the cost. This will help you determine if it's worth the cost of a key fob repair or just buying a new one.
Problems with the Circuitry
Your key fob is subject to lots of abuse and stress while you use it, as it is dropped, tossed and exposed to cold and heat on a daily basis. This can damage internal parts, including the tiny electronic circuitry that sends signals to the car. In the event of damage, these signals may cease to function properly and hinder you from opening your doors or starting your car.
If remote key fob repair tried replacing the battery but it doesn't work, there is the possibility that your fob needs to be reprogrammed for the specific model and make of vehicle. This can be done either through a dealer, or a professional repair shop with experience in your vehicle. This is a simple procedure that takes only a few moments to complete.
Another possibility is that your fob casing is worn out, which can 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. These can wear down over time or snap completely. A simple replacement casing should restore your fob's functionality.
Sometimes the fob requires reprogramming to reflect the current year model, make, and model of your vehicle. This is a simple solution that you can perform at home or with an expert if you have an additional fob. The procedure is generally simple and only involves following a few guidelines on the manufacturer's website or your local dealership's service center.
It's possible that your key fob has to be replaced entirely, but this is often more expensive and can require visiting the dealer or an independent shop with expertise in your particular make and model. Replacing a key fob typically the best option if it's not functioning properly and you do not want to be stuck somewhere. Replacements can cost anything between $50 and $150, depending on the model and brand.
Replacement
It is unfortunate that your fob's key does not always work. However, you can repair the majority of problems. One of the most common issues is a dead fob battery, which can be replaced quickly and will help you get back to driving as quickly as you can. It is recommended to keep spare batteries in your vehicle so that you can easily replace them as needed.
The procedure of replacing the battery in a key fob is relatively simple, but it can be a little tricky to do if this is your first time. Start by finding out which type of battery your key fob is using, as this will help you purchase the correct battery for it. It is common to find this information online, but it is also helpful to look in your car's manual if you are unsure. Once you know which kind of battery your key fob requires and you are ready to go to a store or home improvement store to purchase it. These kinds of batteries are generally very affordable, so it's an ideal idea to have plenty of them in your inventory. When you receive the new battery, make sure to place it into your key fob correctly. This will ensure that the (+) and (-) signs are positioned in the same way as they did when you used the old battery. After you've inserted the new battery, you are able to put your key fob back together and test it to make sure that it is working properly.
If you know the process, replacing the battery of a key fob is a simple task. If you are unable to figure out what is wrong with your key fob or the device is not functioning after replacing the battery, it might be time to speak with an expert for a professional replacement. While it's always an excellent idea to try and repair your key fob prior purchasing a replacement, in some cases this is not possible and it is more cost-effective to simply buy one from a dealership.