Key Fob Repair Near Me
The key fob of your car will experience many wear and tear. It's important to always have a spare key fob in case yours breaks down.
The most common problem is a dead or low battery. However, there could be other reasons that cause your key fob not functioning. Numerous automakers offer guidelines on how to replace the battery in the fobs.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
One of the most common reasons for the slow response of a key fob is that the battery has failed. If you find that you need to press the unlock button multiple times before your car responds or it's not able to lock from far away as it used to, it's probably time for replacement batteries. The good news is that, unlike your car's battery, it's fairly easy to replace a key fob battery yourself.
Press the unlock button several times to ensure that the fob is functioning. If you're sure that it hasn't simply not working because it's out of range there are a few things you could do to bring it back. Make sure you have your fob. You can usually activate it by putting it on your driver's side door handle If there's enough juice in the battery to trigger the door locks even if you're unable to unlock it from two car lengths away.
Next, make sure that you have the right type of battery, which will be embossed on the fob. It's typically a type of battery known as button cells. Brands such as Duracell or Energizer sell them. Once you have the correct battery, you can remove the old one and replace it with the new one. Make car key fob repair near me that the positive side is facing up. Snap the fob halves together and test the lock/unlock/start function.
If you want to make sure you're protected take the fob to a repair shop or your car dealership to have them replace its battery. This will probably cost you a bit more than if you did it yourself but it's a good idea get someone else to do it to ensure you don't end up damaging the circuit board when you're trying to open the fob to swap the battery.
You can save money by purchasing a CR2032 from an online retailer or a hardware store. Then, follow the directions on your owner's guide (which you can find online in PDF format on the manufacturer's website, or on YouTube) to replace the battery in the fob. This is a simple procedure that will restore the remote function you use for your Springfield excursions.
Damaged Buttons
While it may seem odd that the key fob inside your car needs maintenance it is true that they do. These issues are typically not a major issue and can be solved by replacing the battery. However there are other issues that can be noticed that could indicate that the key fob requires more attention.
The power button could be the reason behind your key fob not turning on or buttons not working. Cell buttons can be subjected to a beating from wear and tear and the internal components could be damaged or ripped loose causing the button to fail. There are do-it-yourself kits available to replace power buttons, however working with these tiny and delicate components can be difficult to say the least. Making an attempt to replace the power button could be risky as there is a real risk of damaging the interior circuitry.
Some locksmiths in the automotive industry have equipment for this type of repair, and they can complete it while you are waiting. They can fix the buttons and get them looking as good as new in just a few minutes.
If a professional isn't an option you can buy aftermarket key fobs that appear identical to the original key fob for only a fraction of the cost. Certain automotive stores and dealerships will allow you to have them programmed with your vehicle, while others won't. Genesky says he can program his fobs for most cars made since the '90s however he must deny customers with more recent Audi or BMW models due to the fact that he does not have the required programming equipment.
Check your vehicle's warranty to determine whether it covers the cost of a replacement key fob, or at a minimum some of the cost. This will help you decide whether it's worth spending the money for a repair or a replacement key fob.
Problems with the Circuitry
Your key fob is subject to a lot of abuse and stress when you use it, as it is thrown around, tossed and exposed to cold and heat on a daily basis. This can cause damage to internal components which include the tiny electronic circuitry that sends signals to the car. Depending on how badly damaged these signals are they could stop working and prevent you from opening doors or even starting your car.
If you've tried replacing the battery, but it doesn't work, there is an opportunity that your fob has to be reprogrammed to match your specific make and model of vehicle. This can be accomplished by a dealer or a professional shop that has experience with your vehicle. This is a very simple procedure that takes just a few minutes to complete.
Another possibility is that the fob casing could be 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 replacement casing is an easy fix that will restore your device to full function.
Sometimes your key fob has to be changed to the year, make, and model of your vehicle. This is a simple solution that you can perform at your home or with an expert if you own an additional fob. The process is simple and involves only following some instructions from your manufacturer's site or your local dealership's service center.
It's possible that your key fob has to be replaced entirely However, this is typically more expensive and can require an appointment with a dealer or an independent shop that has expertise in your particular brand and model. Replacement of a key fob is typically the best option if it's not working correctly and you don't want to risk getting stranded 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 is good to know that the majority of issues are relatively easy to fix and are easily fixed. One of the most common problems is a dead fob battery, which can be replaced quickly and will help you get back on the road as quickly as possible. It is a good plan to have spare batteries on hand so that you can replace them if needed.
It's fairly easy to replace a key fob's battery however it can be a bit tricky if it is your first time. Begin by determining the type of battery your key fob takes to ensure you purchase the correct battery for it. It is common to find this information on the internet however, it's beneficial to consult the manual of your car if you aren't sure. You can purchase the battery at a home improvement store or general store after you have decided what type your key fob needs. It is a good thing to keep a few of these batteries in your inventory because they are typically extremely affordable. After you have received the new battery, take care to place it in your key fob with the proper orientation. This will ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) signs are facing the same direction that they were facing with the old battery. After you have installed the new battery, you can then connect your key fob together and check that it is working properly.
Replacing a key fob battery is a relatively simple job, and you can do it on your own if you are able to do it. If you're unable to identify the issue the fob or if it isn't working after replacing the batteries, it could be time to consult an expert to replace it professionally. While it's recommended to attempt to repair your key fob prior purchasing a replacement, in some cases this isn't feasible and it can be more cost-effective to simply buy one from a dealer.