4 Dirty Little Secrets About Car Key Fob Repairs And The Car Key Fob Repairs Industry
Car Key Fob Repairs Car key fobs, like any electronic device can have issues with their functioning. Most of these issues are simple to address. For example replacing the battery on a key fob will cost $10 or less, and can be done at a majority of hardware stores and online. Some repairs, however require the help of an expert shop or dealer. Dead Batteries The most frequent issue that prevents key fobs working is a dead or weak battery. It's simple to fix this issue especially if you have spare batteries in your possession. You can find flat watch-style batteries in most hardware and auto parts stores, and they are usually cheaper than you might imagine. You can also utilize a multi-tool for opening your key fob and replace the battery from within but this is more complicated and could require assistance from a professional. It's a good idea keep an extra battery on hand, however there are some things that can go awry with your keyfob that a new battery won't fix. If you discover that you must be nearer to your vehicle to start or unlock it, it could be that your key fob has lost its pairing with your vehicle's receiver. This is a different issue that can be solved by resetting your key fob, but you will need to consult the owner's manual for instructions. Some vehicles have keys that can be used to start the engine and ignition without traditional keys for cars. These are more complex and are more expensive to replace in the event of being damaged or lost. It is common go to your local dealer to get one of these fobs resettled and it could cost you hundreds of dollars. It is usually possible to have this done by an independent shop who is able to work with your specific make and model. Avoid the temptation to purchase a cheap fob online and beware that they are more costly and less reliable than dealer-made fobs. Visit your local stores and ask if they can perform this kind of work. Request a quote before you make any commitments. Some insurance companies also cover this cost however, it can be a significant amount in the event of high-deductible insurance. Damaged Buttons Car key fobs take quite a beating. They bounce around in pockets, purses and are often dropped on hard surfaces. They also get wet to various levels. This jolting may result in the buttons on the key fob to become unresponsive and require replacement. Another reason for key fob buttons not working is the batteries are dead. Fob batteries are small, coin-shaped, and easy to replace at home. The owner's manual for your vehicle should contain information on the kind of battery you need and how to change it. If you don't have the manual, you can find online guides for your specific vehicle. When opening a keyfob, you must be extremely cautious because the circuitry is delicate and so are the buttons. A screwdriver could damage these components and cause the issue to get worse. If you're not sure how to open the key fob, it's usually best to go to a shop that offers this service. They can take off the case and find out what kind of battery is inside (usually a flat watch style) and replace it with a fresh one. The environment and the location you store your fob can also influence how long the batteries last. Storage in extreme temperatures could lead to premature battery death, and the fob may lose its pairing with your car's receiver. The majority of remotes can reset, but this usually requires the help of an expert locksmith or car dealer. If you've tried changing the batteries as well as the actuators for the buttons and the key fob still not responding, it might be the time to bring your vehicle in for a checkup. A trained technician from Hillside Auto Repair will inspect your key fob to determine whether it needs a simple replacement, or reprogramming. If the latter is the case, you may be required to return for a custom-made fob from a dealership. Some automakers do not allow other manufacturers to design fobs that are compatible with their vehicles. Buttons that aren't responsive If your key fob has gone non-responsive, the first thing to look at is the batteries. These batteries in the shape of coins are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big-box retailers for $10 or less. YouTube videos and numerous owner's manuals provide instructions on how to replace the battery. After that the buttons should start working again. If the issue continues it could be a relay malfunction or another electrical component that is causing problems with the connection between the button on the vehicle and the button. If you're still getting a perplexing silence when pressing the page, no, or arrow buttons, you can try contacting someone who can help troubleshoot this problem. If the issue isn't resolved It could be time to replace your car key fob. Keychain-sized remotes are typically made of plastic and have buttons that unlock and lock doors and start the car and trigger an alarm. If you have a newer car, these fobs can also be used to park your vehicle. When these handy devices fail, they can cause a lot of trouble and compromise your security. A stolen or lost key fob can cause problems to start your car, leaving you at risk of fraudsters and thieves. Some drivers might be tempted to buy a cheaper replacement fob online instead of going to the dealership, but this can be a risky and costly mistake. The reason is that not all aftermarket fobs can be programmed to your vehicle's specific settings. Contact your local automaker or locksmith to determine the cost of replacing the lost key fob with a dealer made one. If you don't want to wait around for a repairman you can use NAPA Auto Parts, which provides replacement fobs. They have hundreds of different models. These replacement fobs appear and function the same as the originals, however they can be programmed at home with a cheap programming tool. This is a much superior option than attempting to program a fob yourself it will only take just a few minutes and be completed in the comfort of your own garage. Car that isn't responding The car key fob is a modern device that is convenient to get into your car and controlling functions like unlocking the doors or starting the engine. They function by sending a signal using specific frequency to a receiver unit in the vehicle. It then determines whether or not the right signal was sent. These devices are not affordable, and is costly in the event of a malfunction. This can be a hassle particularly if you're driving. Luckily, there are many ways to address this issue so you can get back on the road quickly. More Help is changing the battery. These are usually flat watch-style batteries that are easily available at an auto parts stores. It is possible that you don't need anything else to fix the issue. If the problem persists it may be necessary to replace the key fob. Key fobs can be costly to replace because they are complex pieces of technology. A new key fob can cost hundreds of dollars based on the type and year of your vehicle. It can be even more expensive when you need to reprogramme it. Replacing a key fob can be done at many different places, from automotive locksmiths to the dealership. The dealership is typically the most expensive option. They may offer a more convenient solution by visiting your home and programming the remote there. If your key fob is not working, it can be frustrating and annoying. While this could be an indication of something more serious happening with the vehicle or with the vehicle itself, it could also be an indication that you require a new battery or that an unresponsive button has been pressed or stuck. These simple solutions can be frustrating but will bring you back on the road in a short amount of time. If you're still having trouble then you should contact an automotive locksmith to assistance with a key fob replacement. They can program your new key fob to work with your vehicle.