Car Key Fob Repairs Near Me
When they do break, high-tech keys to your car could be expensive to replace. Before you rush out to buy an entirely new one, you can try some quick fixes.
Dealerships are your best bet for replacing the key fob with modern features, like ones which control trunk release and remote engine start. But a locksmith might be able to complete the job cheaper.
Dead Battery
One of the most common reasons for a key fob to stop working is simply because of an unresponsive battery. This is a situation that can occur at any moment, typically when you least expect it and require your car to go to work. While it's simple to fix the problem of a dead battery for your key fob but it will require basic knowledge of how these devices work and the tools needed to open them.
It can be difficult to determine if a battery is dead in a modern key fob, since most don't have an LED light that shows when the device is activated. If you spot any errors or issues on your key fob, this is the best method to determine if it's dead or low.
If you notice that your key fob is beginning to take longer and longer to lock or unlock, then this is a clear indication that the battery is depleted. This can cause a delay in starting your car which is clearly an inconvenience.
You might also notice that your key fob's range is less of a range than it normally does. This could indicate that the battery is starting to die and is no longer transmitting a strong signal to your car's sensors.
Some modern key fobs come with the ability to release a physical key inside of them in the event that the remote is lost. The key is usually hidden somewhere within the fob, and you'll have to consult your owner's manual for specific information about how to find it. If you have a car that has this feature, then you should always keep an extra key fob and the required tool in the glove box or the center console for times of need.
It is possible to replace a key fob's battery at home by following the directions in the owner's manual for your vehicle or YouTube videos. These batteries are priced at around $10 or less in hardware stores, big-box retail outlets, and online. It shouldn't cost much to perform this simple fix. Install the new battery in the same way you removed the old one, or it will not work properly.
Stuck Buttons
Just like any electronic device car remote keys eventually cease to function. This is because of the natural accumulation of oil, dirt and other pollutants on our hands and in the air. Fortunately, most of the time this is a simple fix that you can do yourself. The majority times, rubbing alcohol and some clicks are all that's needed.
Make sure your device is not connected. Clean the button and the area around it using a cotton swab that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Try to reach into all crevices. After you've cleaned the buttons and their surrounding area, give them a few clicks to help get rid of any grime that has been accumulated.
Then, use compressed air to get rid of any remaining gunk. Be careful not to blow dirt into the key fob. You can use a small can of compressed air, similar to the kind you use in cleaning products. This should be enough to allow the button to be released.
If you've tried all the above, but the buttons are not responding, it might be time to contact an expert. The majority of Mister Minit shops have the required equipment to cut and program replacement key fobs. You'll need the year, make and MODEL of your car handy, as these details will determine the type of transponder chip your key comes with.
If you're not comfortable trying to repair your key fob on your own, you can always visit any AutoZone location and ask a staff member to fix it for you. To program the new key, they will require the year, year of manufacture and model of your car. This service is fast and easy, which makes it an ideal choice for those who need to purchase a new car key fob in the last minute.
Reprogramming
Many people are unable to reprogram their car key fobs. This is due to the fact that the different vehicles have different programming sequences. Some require special equipment for access and entry, whereas others require key-cylinder presses and button press cycles to complete.
The most effective method to reprogramme the car key fob is to visit the locksmith. Locksmiths can offer keys, replacement parts, key cutting services as well as programming services to get your new keys up and running quickly and correctly. This will save you the time and cost of purchasing and reprogramming an entirely new set of key fobs.
Check the batteries before you try to reprogramme the key fob. If the battery is empty, replacing it will improve your chances of success. It's also recommended to consider keeping an extra key fob on to be on hand in case.
You should also have a spare keyfob along with all the tools you require. These tools include a screwdriver as well as needle-nosed pliers and tweezers as well as keys. These tools allow you to access the circuit board's internal circuit and remove the fob without damaging it or making it inoperable.
Once you've gathered all your tools, it's the time to begin the reprogramming procedure. In general you'll start by getting into your vehicle on the driver's side and closing all the doors, with the exception of the driver's. Close all other electronic key fobs that you would like to program. Press the lock button a few times on the desired keyfob. This will result in a "lock sound" and signal that you've entered programming mode. You can then complete the reprogramming by pressing lock button a second time within five minutes.
The steps above will work for the majority of automobiles. However, there are certain which require an in-depth understanding of your specific vehicle's onboard programming system. If you own a car manufactured after 2010 or by a luxury manufacturer the procedure is more complex and requires the use of special hardware.
Replacement
If a car key fob simply won't turn on or unlock your vehicle, it may be time to replace it. While a new one can be costly, it's also the most secure and simple alternative if the old one isn't working.
You can typically find replacement key fobs at car parts stores, a few hardware stores, and some big-box retailers. You can also find them on the internet or in automobile stores. If you want to save money, you can try opening the fob yourself and replacing the battery yourself. Often, car key repair required is a small flat-bladed screwdriver to pry into the fob's casing and replace the battery. Then, you can rebuild the fob and test the buttons to make sure they're working correctly.
It's essential to have an extra key fob to your car, as it can be a pain when the one you have isn't working. Luckily, most times when your car fob doesn't function it's not due to a serious issue and is fixable by replacing the battery or by reprogramming it. In certain cases, the fob will require a complete replacement.
The simplest way to prevent the failure of a key fob is to keep it clean. Dust can build up in the circuitry of the key fob, causing it to malfunction over time. This can cause a button to become stuck or stop responding to signals sent by your vehicle's keys.
Some fobs can be cleaned by water or even some cleaners are mild. However, it's best to leave the cleaning of the car key fob to professionals who specialize in these types of repairs. If you're unsure, check your owner's guide or the Internet for directions.
If you've lost your key fob but can't seem to find it, you may have to call your dealership to have an extra key programmed. Some car dealerships have equipment that can reprogram the chip on a key fob when it's replaced. This is an expensive alternative, but it's the only option to get back on the road.