Don't Be Enticed By These "Trends" About Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob Repairs Near Me
Many cars come with key fobs that let you to unlock or start the car from a distance. Some also have additional features such as remote control for lowering or raising the windows.
But they can break, too. The days when you could visit a local locksmith for a replacement are mostly gone and a replacement can cost hundreds of dollars.
Dead Battery
Probably the most common problem people have with their car key fobs is that the battery is dead. Batteries wear out over time and it's easy to overlook this fact until you're in the middle of nowhere and your key fob isn't turning on or open your car.
The good news is that replacing the battery is simple and inexpensive. You can purchase a replacement at a hardware store or even some big-box retailers for about $10, and the process is actually quite easy. Make sure you purchase the correct type of battery for your particular vehicle however. Most fobs use a standard watch battery, known as a coin cell CR2032 however, you can refer to the owner's manual or go online to search for your specific model to find out what kind of battery it requires.
It's worth noting that the majority of modern fobs have an emergency blade which is a metal key that can be used to open the driver's door in the event that the remote fails to work. If you don't have an extra key fob with you, this could be an excellent option to avoid being stranded in a remote area or having to pay for a locksmith.
You may also try pressing the lock or unlock buttons repeatedly until you hear an audio. This resets the circuit board inside the fob and can often revive the device.
If your key fob is still not working it is likely that the fob is not paired with your vehicle, and you need to re-program it. You can usually do this yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual or on the internet in videos.
Be aware that reprogramming your key fob is more complex than simply changing the battery. This is especially relevant if you have an older model key fob that requires special computer software, which only a dealer has access to. If you're unsure about how to go about it you might want to seek out a professional.
Damaged Buttons
Despite being built to take the punishment keys aren't impervious to damage. They are often dropped, tossed around in pockets and purses and are exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. Over time, the circuit board and battery can also be damaged. If this happens the buttons on your key fob might stop functioning properly. It is usually a simple fix. You can either replace the battery or clean the contacts.
Many people don't realize they have problems with their key fob until they try to unlock or lock the car, and it doesn't work. The fob utilizes radio waves and infrared signals to communicate with the car's system. If you notice that your fob isn't sending these signals, it may be time to get in touch with locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
A key fob that doesn't respond when pressed is another common problem. This could be due to a variety of reasons like dirt and other debris getting into the battery compartment or issues with the software. The device may require reprogramming to work properly again if this is the cause.
The car key fob enables drivers to unlock, lock and start their vehicles without having to remove the ignition key. The key fob emits a signal that the car recognizes and then it can perform different functions, depending on the model and make.
Whether you need to have your key fob reprogrammed or you just need an alternative, Ace Hardware can help. They offer a range of key fobs for most makes and models as well as key rings and car accessories. Even older vehicles can be fitted with their key fobs.
It is recommended to contact the dealer who sold you the vehicle to get it programmed. Some dealerships, especially those that sell luxury cars, will not sell or program key fobs from the aftermarket. The process is complex and requires technical knowledge that is only available to automobile manufacturers. Most new-car bumper to bumper warranties and auto insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Faulty Transmitter
The advent of smart technology has allowed car keys to perform a lot more in comparison to the previous. With just a push of a key it is possible to unlock or lock a vehicle, activate/disable alarms and even start the car. These remotes/fobs are packed with technology and are vulnerable to damage. It is not unusual for these remotes to stop working at the moment you least expect it like when you are loading groceries into your car or on your way to work.
Other issues could arise from your key fob apart from the battery being dead. There could be key fob repair within the transmitter that stops it from being registered if your key is within range. This can be a little more difficult to identify, since there's no obvious physical sign that the transmitter is damaged. It may be worth connecting the key fob to another vehicle to check its compatibility.
You can also disassemble the fob to make sure that the buttons aren't damaged or stuck. Since the remote spends much time being jostled around, the buttons may sometimes become stuck or out of alignment, which may be enough to cause it to not respond when pressed. In this instance, readjusting the buttons is an easy fix that will assist in solving the issue in the nick of time.
It's a good idea to use a spare car key in order to determine if the issue is the fob or something else. This will help narrow down the cause and help you find a solution whether it be changing the programming or replacing the key fob entirely.
If you've done all of the above but are still having issues with your car's key fob it may be the right time to look into an alternative. Based on the make and model, these can be purchased at a dealership or aftermarket retailers. NAPA Auto Parts offers replacement car keys that can be programmed without any tools. They look like the original fobs, and are available for a reasonable price.
Reprogramming
Most modern cars have key fobs with many features packed inside. They can be used for everything from locking and unlocking cars to removing alarms, turning off the engine, and more. This tech fits into tiny, coin-sized remote, which is usually made from brass or nickel. As time passes, this device can be less reliable and may be prone to fail. Reprogramming the fob could be required if the buttons no longer work or the car will not start.
There are ways to cut down on the cost of reprograming new keys. If you have an extra key fob, you can have it reprogrammed by a locksmith, rather than paying the dealer. Some automakers allow owners to program key fobs by following a set of steps that put the car in "learn mode". The procedure is typically explained in the owner's manual, or can be found online by searching for "onboard programming instructions for [your vehicle model."
It's a good idea whether you have a spare working fob or one is being repaired, to keep one in your purse or pocket. This allows you to utilize it to start your car in the event that you're locked out or need to leave your vehicle while shopping. If you have a smart-key, it's more important to have a spare. These keys have a built-in chip that lets them unlock doors and open the car. As they age, however the technology may wear out, which is why it's important to check the site of the manufacturer to determine if you can buy replacement smart keys for your specific vehicle.
While you can buy new key fobs from some online retailers, they may not be able to program the right key for your particular vehicle. It's better to find an auto locksmith who is familiar with the year and make of your vehicle. The locksmith in the automotive industry can recode the key fob on your vehicle and then install a new one should it be required.