Key Fob Repair Near Me
The key fob that you have on your car is subjected to a lot wear and tear. It's essential to have a spare key fob just in case yours gets damaged.
The most frequent issue is an unresponsive battery. However, there are other causes for your key fob not working. Many automakers provide instructions on how to replace the battery on the fobs.
Dead Key Fob Battery
A dead battery is among the most frequent causes for a keyfob to be slow. If you notice that you need to press the unlock button multiple times before your car responds or it can't lock from the distance it once could It's probably time to buy replacement batteries. The good news is that unlike your car's battery, it's relatively easy to replace the battery on your key fob yourself.
The first thing you should do is to ensure that the fob works, which means pressing the unlock button a few times. If you're certain that it isn't down to being out of range it's possible to try a few things to help revive it. Make sure you have your fob. If there is enough power in the battery, you can activate it by pressing it against the driver's door handle.
Make sure you have the correct type of battery, which will be embossed on the fob. It's usually a button cell that is sold by brands such as Duracell and Energizer. Once you have the correct battery, remove your old one and replace it with the new one. Make sure that the positive side is facing upwards. Snap the fob halves back together and then test it to make sure the start, lock and unlock functions are working properly again.
If you want to be sure you're protected take the fob to a repair shop or a dealer to replace its battery. It's more expensive to have someone else replace the battery than if it were done by you, however you won't cause damage to the circuit board if doing it yourself.
You can save money by purchasing a CR2032 from a big box retailer or a hardware store. Then, follow the instructions in your owner's guide (which is available online in PDF format on the manufacturer's website or on YouTube) to change the battery in the fob. This is a simple procedure that will restore the remote functionality that you've been using on your Springfield trips.
Damaged Buttons
Although it might seem odd that the key fob in your car needs maintenance, they actually do. These issues are generally not serious and can be fixed by replacing the battery. However, there are other issues that may be noticed that could indicate that the key fob is in need of more attention.
The power button could be the cause of your key fob not working or the buttons not working. Cell buttons can be damaged by everyday wear and tear, and the internal components may be broken or knocked out. There are kits that can be made to replace power buttons, but working with these tiny and delicate pieces can be difficult to say the least. It's also risky to attempt to replace the power button as you could end up damaging the circuitry.
Some locksmiths in the automotive industry have equipment for this type of repair and are able to complete it while you are waiting. They can fix the buttons and get them looking as good as new in a matter of minutes.
In the event that a professional isn't an option You can buy aftermarket key fobs that appear exactly like your original key fob at a fraction of the price. Some dealerships and automotive retailers allow you to program them using your vehicle, whereas others don't. Genesky claims he is able to program his fobs to work with all vehicles manufactured since the 1990s but he's forced to turn away customers with newer Audi or BMW models due to the fact that he does not have the required programming equipment.
It is also essential to look over your vehicle's basic warranty and extended warranties as well as roadside assistance coverage to determine if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob or at least some of the costs. This will help you decide if it's worth paying for a repair or a replacement key fob.
Circuitry Problems
Your key fob is used every day, which means that it is exposed to a lot of stress and abuse. It gets dropped, jostled and exposed to heat or cold. This can damage internal components, especially the tiny electronic circuit board inside which sends signals to your car. Depending on how damaged these signals are, they could stop working and hinder you from opening doors or starting your vehicle.
If you've tried replacing the battery, but it's still not working, your fob may require reprogramming specifically for your make and model. This can be done by a dealer, or a professional shop that has experience in your vehicle. The procedure for this is usually very simple and only takes some minutes to complete.
The casing of the fob might also wear 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 wear down over time or even break completely. A replacement casing is an easy fix that will restore your fob to proper functioning.
Sometimes key repair needs to be reprogrammed with the current year, model, and make of your vehicle. This is a simple solution that you can perform at home or by a professional if you have an additional fob. The process is easy and involves just the instructions on the website of your manufacturer or the local dealership service center.
It's possible that your key fob has to be replaced completely however this is usually more expensive and can require a visit to the dealer or an independent shop with expertise in your particular make and model. Replacement of a key fob is typically the best option if it isn't working properly and you do not want to risk being stuck somewhere. Depending on the brand and model, replacements may cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
While it is unfortunate that your car's key fob doesn't always work, it's important to know that the majority of problems are quite simple and can be repaired. One of the most common issues is a dead fob battery, which can be replaced quickly and will help you get back on the road as soon as possible. It is recommended to have extra batteries available so that you can replace them when needed.
The process of replacing a key fob battery is relatively simple, but it can be difficult to complete if it is your first time. Begin by determining the kind of battery your key fob is using, as this will help to choose the correct battery for it. The information is generally available online, but you can also consult the owner's manual for your vehicle when you are unsure. You can purchase the battery from a home improvement store or general store after you have decided the type of key fob your needs. These kinds of batteries are usually cheap, and it is recommended to keep many on hand. When you receive your new battery, ensure to put it in your key fob in a proper manner. This will ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) signs are facing the same direction as they were when you used your old battery. After you have installed the new battery, you can connect your key fob together and test it to ensure that it functions properly.
If you know how, replacing the battery of a key fob is an easy task. However, if you cannot find out what's wrong with your key fob or when it isn't working after changing the battery, it might be time to call an expert for a replacement. While it is always recommended to attempt to repair your key fob prior to purchasing a replacement, in some cases this isn't feasible and it is cheaper to purchase one from a dealership.