Key Fob Repair Near Me
The key fob of your car will experience a lot of wear and tear. That's why it's important to have a backup ready in the event that yours ceases to function.
The most common issue is the battery is dead or not functioning properly. However, there may be other causes for your key fob to stop functioning. Certain automakers make it simple to swap out the battery in their own fobs. Instructions are usually available on the Internet.
Dead Key Fob Battery
One of the most frequent reasons for the key fob's slow response is that the battery has died. It's time to replace your battery if are finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car responds or the key fob isn't locking as far as it used to. It's simple to replace the battery in the key fob.
Press the unlock button a few times to verify that the fob is working. If you're certain that it isn't down to being out of range then you can try some things to bring it back to life. Make sure you have your fob. If there is enough power in the battery, you can turn it on it by pressing it against the door handle.
Next, make sure that you have the correct type of battery, which will be embossed on the fob. It's typically a button cell that is sold by brands such as Duracell and Energizer. Once key repair near me found the right battery, take out the old one and place the new one in with the positive side facing up. The fob halves should be snapped back together and then test it to ensure that the start, lock and unlock functions are working correctly.
If you want to be extra safe and secure, take the fob to a repair shop for watches or to your car dealership and ask them to change its battery for you. This will probably cost a little more than if doing it yourself however it's a good idea get someone else to do it to ensure that you don't damage the circuit board while trying to open the fob to change the battery.
You can save money by purchasing a CR2032 from an online retailer or hardware store. Then, follow the instructions in your owner's guide (which you can find online in PDF format on the manufacturer's site or on YouTube) to change the battery in the fob. It's a simple process and will restore all the handy remote function that you rely on so often on your trips around Springfield.
Buttons damaged
While it may seem odd that the key fob inside your car requires maintenance, they do. Most of the time, these aren't major and could be as easy as replacing the battery. Other issues could be noticed that indicate the keyfob needs more attention.
If your key fob won't turn on or the buttons don't work it could be due to a problem with the power button. Cell buttons can be subjected to a beating from wear and tear, and the internal components may be smashed or damaged causing the button to fail. There are kits that can be made to replace power buttons, however dealing with these tiny and delicate pieces can be challenging to say the least. Making an attempt to replace the power button can be dangerous as there is a chance of damaging the internal circuitry.
There are some locksmiths for cars who have specialized equipment to handle this type of repair and they can typically complete the repair while you sit back. They can repair the buttons and have them looking as good as new in just a few minutes.
If you don't wish to employ an expert then you can purchase key fobs from the aftermarket at a bargain price. They look exactly like your original key fob. Some automotive retailers and some dealerships will allow you to program them with your vehicle, while others will not. Genesky claims he is able to program his fobs for most automobiles manufactured prior to the '90s but he's forced to refuse customers who have newer Audi or BMW models due to the fact that he does not have the necessary programming equipment.
It is also essential to look over your vehicle's warranty basic, extended warranties or roadside assistance coverage to see if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob, or at least some of the costs. This will aid you in deciding if it's worth paying for repair or replacement key fob.
Issues with the Circuitry
Your key fob is subject to many abuses and stress while you use it. This is because it is dropped, jostled and exposed to cold and heat on a daily basis. This can cause damage to internal parts that include the tiny electronic circuitry that sends signals to the car. Depending on how badly damaged these signals are they may cease to function and hinder you from opening doors or even starting your car.
If you've tried replacing the battery, but it does not work, there is the possibility that your fob must be reprogrammed to match the specific model and make of vehicle. This can be done by a dealer or a professional shop that has experience with your vehicle. This is a simple procedure that takes just a few moments to complete.
Another possibility is that your fob casing is worn out, which can cause it to 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 become worn down over time or snap completely. A replacement casing is an easy solution that can bring your device back to its original functioning.
Sometimes your key fob just needs to be reprogrammed for the current year, make, and model of your vehicle. This is a simple solution that you can perform at home or with an expert if you own an extra fob. The process is usually quite simple and involves only following a few instructions on the manufacturer's website or the service center.
It's possible that your key fob requires to be replaced entirely however this is usually more expensive and can require a visit to the dealer or an independent shop that has expertise in your particular make and model. Replacing a key fob usually the best option in cases where it's not functioning correctly and you don't want to risk getting stuck in a remote location. Depending on the make and model, replacements could vary in cost from $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
It's unfortunate that your key fob may not always work. However, you can fix the majority of problems. One of the most common issues is a dead battery, which is easily replaced and will allow you to get back on the road as soon as you can. To prevent this issue from happening again in the future, it's a good idea to have spare batteries in the car so that you can replace them when needed.
It is relatively easy 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. Begin by determining the type of battery your key fob uses to ensure you choose the right battery for it. This information is typically available online, however, you can also consult the owner's manual of your vehicle if in doubt. You can purchase the battery at an store for home improvement or a general store once you have determined the type of key fob your needs. It's a good idea to keep a few of these batteries on hand since they're usually very cheap. When you receive the new battery, be sure to put it in your key fob in the correct way. This will ensure the (+) and (-) signs are positioned in the same way as they did on your previous battery. After you've inserted your new battery, snap the key fob back together and test it.
If you know how, replacing the battery on a key fob is a simple task. However, if you cannot figure out what is wrong with your key fob, or if it fails to function after changing the battery, it may be time to contact an expert for a replacement. It is always a great idea to fix your keyfob prior to buying a replacement. However, this may not be feasible. In these cases, it is more cost-effective to purchase one from a dealer.