While a car key fob may seem a bit of an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could be in a bind. It's costly to replace it, but often it's the most effective solution.
You can save money by visiting other places before you go to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is a dead battery. This can be a surprise, especially if it happens when you're leaving to work or at a social event. Although you may have a backup plan in place for emergencies, like a spare key or a phone number for roadside assistance, you will likely require getting the fob repaired or replaced. The good news is that most car key fob battery issues can be fixed with the right knowledge.
Many modern cars come with a backup system that accounts for the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. If you attach a dead fob to the ignition, you are able to typically start the vehicle. If you have a push-to start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will provide detailed instructions on how you can use the key fob.
Other reasons why keys not responding to button presses or turning on include buttons that aren't completely pressed or is a battery with a low capacity or a remote which requires programming. In some cases cleaning your key fob could be enough to make it work again. Because remote key fob repair are frequently pressed over and over again the dirt may accumulate and stop them from pressing completely.
You can make use of the end of a clip clean your key fob. You can use this to safely open the case and remove your old battery. Keep an extra battery and any tools you may need to open the case of your key fob at hand. This way, you'll be prepared for a problem with your key fob so that it doesn't interrupt your day or result in having need to call for roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep a spare key in your purse so that you aren't surprised by a malfunctioning key fob.
Button Issues
When they are pressed, the buttons on a remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals won't be sent. Your fob may stop working. This can happen over time or may be due to another issue with the car or fob. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's damaged.
Key fobs are usually exposed to a lot of abuse. They're dropped, tossed around, and exposed to cold and heat every day. They're also quite fragile and can be easily broken. The inside of the fob is filled with components like a circuit board and battery contacts, which can be destroyed with enough abuse.
Most issues can be fixed by changing the battery in the fob, however there are certain issues that require more. The battery can be inspected by opening the case of the key fob using an screwdriver and determining whether it's dirty or needs to replaced. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries that can be purchased in nearly any store.
Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just one drop of water. This can be a concern when you accidentally wash your key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and prevent the key fob from functioning.
If you're experiencing a problem with a button the best solution is to call a professional locksmith. They are usually able to repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical issues, such as a broken light or a Horn that isn't working.
It's important to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and equipment for your car. Cars can be costly. If you don't then your vehicle will not function effectively and you'll be having a harder getting to where you want to go. It's also a safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology because it can lead to more serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've been trying to start your car and the fob isn't working, this may be a sign that your battery terminals are broken. The fob must be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system to unlock and start it. This is accomplished through a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) and it unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, however should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission will not work.
These are easy solutions. The process of replacing the battery is usually as easy as removing the old battery, finding out what type of replacement batteries are needed, and heading to an auto parts store or online retailer for the proper ones. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to get to the batteries. Be careful not to break any item.
The next step is to test the key fob once more. If it's still not working it could be that the key's metal part inside the fob is damaged or that the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys must be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and a certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board might have failed because the key fob was exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. This can happen when you are working on your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other malfunctions like a broken key fob or broken horn. It is essential to examine the key fob for damage and repair or replace it if necessary, since not having an operational key can be very stressful and dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a great convenience, but they may also cause problems that require professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of problems that could be afflict a car key fob are relatively simple and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of most frequent problems and their potential solutions.
A dead battery
The most basic remotes can last a long time before requiring a new battery, but the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three or four years, and they can cease functioning if they get too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix - simply purchase the replacement battery and install.
A damaged receiver
The transmitter inside your key fob must receive an input from the receiver in your vehicle in order to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is a straightforward issue to diagnose, but it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if damaged to the point of being unusable.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob to allow it to start. The chip communicates to the car using an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, you need to go to the dealer to purchase an alternative fob that has been correct for your car. You can find replacement fobs that can be used with a wide range of vehicles.
Not working
If you have tried replacing the battery and buttons, but your car key fob isn't working it could be due to an electrical issue or some other kind of problem that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith will be able to resolve the issue by examining for the problem. This service will normally be cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a new fob is contingent on the model of your car and the locksmith you choose to use locally. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to know the cost before booking the job.
