Key Fob Repair Near Me
The key fob of your car will experience many wear and tear. This is why it's crucial to have a backup ready in the event that yours fails.
The most common problem is an unresponsive or dead battery. However, there may be other reasons for your key fob not working. Some automakers allow you to replace the battery in their own fobs, and instructions are usually available on the Internet.
Dead Key Fob Battery
One of the most frequent reasons for the slow response of a key fob is that its battery has gone out of service. It's time to replace the battery if you are finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car responds or when it's not locking as tightly as it used too. It's easy to replace the battery on the key fob.
The first step is check that the fob actually works by 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 some things to revive it. First, ensure 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's type will be printed on the key fob. It's typically a button cell manufactured by brands like Duracell and Energizer. Once key fob repair have the correct battery, you can remove the old one and replace it with the new one. Make sure that the positive side is facing up. The fob halves should be snapped back together and test it to ensure that the lock/unlock and start functions are working correctly.
If you want to make sure you're safe take the fob to a repair shop or your car dealership to have them replace the battery. It's more expensive to let someone else replace the battery than if it was done by you, but you won't damage the circuit board if doing it yourself.
If you'd rather save the money, you can buy a CR2032 battery from an hardware store or a big box retailer, and then follow the steps in your owner's guide (which is likely accessible online as PDFs on the manufacturer's website, or at least on YouTube) to swap out the fob's battery yourself. This is a straightforward process that will bring back the remote functionality that you've been using during your Springfield excursions.
Damaged Buttons
While it may seem strange that the key fob inside your car needs maintenance however, they are. These issues are typically not a major issue and can be solved by replacing the battery. However there are other issues that may occur which might indicate that the key fob needs more attention.
The power button could be the cause of your key fob not functioning or buttons not functioning. Cell buttons can get damaged through wear and tear, and the internal components may be broken or knocked out. There are do-it-yourself kits available to replace power buttons, however working with these small and delicate parts can be difficult to say the least. The process of replacing the power button can be risky as there is a high chance of damaging the internal circuitry.
There are some locksmiths for cars who have specialized equipment to deal with this kind of repair. They can usually complete it while you sit back. They can fix the buttons in just a few minutes and make them look as good as new.
If you don't want to engage an expert or even a professional, you can purchase key fobs that are made by the market for a small cost. They're exactly like your original key fob. Some retailers in the automotive industry and dealerships will allow you to program them with your vehicle, but some do not. Genesky claims that he can program his fobs with most vehicles manufactured since the 1990s however he must deny customers with more recent Audi or BMW models since he doesn't have the required programming equipment.
Examine your car's warranty to see if it covers the cost of a new key fob, or at a minimum a portion of the costs. This will aid you in deciding whether it's worth spending the money for repairs or a replacement key fob.
Circuitry Issues
Your key fob is subject to many abuses and stress while you use it, as it is thrown around, tossed, and exposed to cold and hot every day. This can cause damage to internal components, including the tiny electronic circuit board within that sends signals to your car. Depending on how damaged these signals are they may cease to function and stop you from opening your doors or even starting your car.
If you've tried replacing the battery, but it doesn't work, there's a chance that your fob needs to be reprogrammed according to your specific make and model of vehicle. This can be accomplished by a dealer or professional shop that is experienced with your vehicle. The procedure is typically very easy and takes only some minutes to complete.
The casing of the fob might also be worn 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. These can wear down over time or snap completely. A simple replacement of the casing will restore your fob's functionality.
Sometimes your key fob has to be changed to the current year, make, and model of your vehicle. This is a simple fix that you can do at home or with an expert if you own an extra fob. The procedure is generally simple and involves only following a few steps from the website of your manufacturer or the service center.
It's possible that your key fob needs to be replaced entirely However, this is typically more expensive and can require a visit to the dealer or an independent shop that has expertise in your particular brand and model. Replacing a key fob is generally the best option when it's not functioning correctly and you do not want to risk being stuck in a remote location. Depending on the make and model, replacements can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
It is unfortunate that your key fob does not always work. However, you can solve the majority of issues. A dead battery in the fob is among the most common problems. It can be easily replaced and will get you back on the road fast. It is a good plan to have spare batteries on hand to be able to replace them if needed.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery of a key fob however, it can be a bit difficult if it's the first time you've done it. It is important to know what type of battery is required for your key fob before you can buy the correct battery. It is common to find this information on the internet however it can be useful to refer to the manual for your car if are unsure. You can purchase the battery from a home improvement store or general store once you have determined what kind of key fob needs. These kinds of batteries are typically cheap, and it is an ideal idea to have many on hand. After you have received the new battery, be sure to put it into your key fob in the proper orientation. This will ensure that the (+) and (-) signs face the same way as they did with your old battery. After you have installed the new battery, snap the key fob again and test it.
The replacement of a key fob's battery is an easy task, and you can do it yourself if you know how to do it. If you're unable to determine what is wrong the fob or if it isn't working after changing the batteries, it may be time to call an expert to replace it professionally. It is always a great idea to fix your key fob prior to purchasing an alternative. However, this might not be feasible. In these instances it is cheaper to purchase one from an authorized dealer.