Car Key Fob Repairs Near Me
If they fail, the high-tech car keys can be costly to replace. Before you rush out to buy a new one, consider some simple fixes.
Dealerships are your best bet to replace keys with more advanced features, like those that control trunk release as well as remote engine start. But a locksmith might be able of doing the task for less.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is among the most common causes for a keyfob to stop functioning. This problem can happen at any moment, often when you least expect it, and your car needs to get to work. It's not difficult to fix a dead battery in the key fob, but you'll need some basic knowledge of how these devices work and the tools needed to open them.
It isn't always easy to identify a dead battery in a modern key fob, because most don't feature an LED light that illuminates when the device is in use. If you spot any errors or issues with your key fob, this is the best way to determine if it's low or dead.
If you notice your key fob is taking longer and longer to unlock or lock, this could be an indication that the battery has drained. This could also cause an inability to start your vehicle which is clearly an inconvenience.
You may also notice that your key fob's range is less than usual. This indicates that your battery is dying and is not sending strong signals to your car's sensor.
Some modern key fobs have the capability to release keys that are physically contained within them if the key remote is lost. The key is typically hidden within the fob. Consult your owner's guide for more information on how to locate it. If you own a vehicle with this feature, then you should always keep an extra key fob and the required tool in the glove box or in the center console in case of emergency.
It is possible to replace the battery of your key fob on your own by following the steps in your vehicle's owner's guide or YouTube videos. These batteries cost around $10 or less in hardware stores and big-box retail outlets and on the internet. It shouldn't be expensive to perform this simple fix. Be sure to put in the new battery the same way that you removed the old one, or else it won't function properly.
Stuck Buttons
Just like any electronic device, car remote keys will eventually cease to function. This is because of the natural accumulation of oil, dirt, and other harmful substances on our hands and in the environment. Fortunately, most of the time this is a simple fix you can perform yourself. Most of the time, rubbing alcohol and some clicks are all that's required.
First, ensure that your device is not plugged in. Clean the button and the surrounding area with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Try to go key repairs into the crevices as you can. After you've cleaned the buttons and surrounding area and the surrounding area, give them a few clicks to help remove any dirt that has accumulated.
Next, you'll want to make use of a can of compressed air to blast away any remaining gunk. Be careful not to blow dirt into the key fob itself though. It would be best to use a smaller can of compressed air, like the kind you'll find in your cleaning items. This should be enough to let go of the stuck button.
If you've tried everything above, but the buttons don't respond, it might be time to call the professionals. Most Mister Minit shops have the necessary equipment to cut and program replacement key fobs. You'll need the year, model and MODEL of your vehicle in hand to determine the kind of transponder chip your key comes with.
You can ask an AutoZone associate to fix it for you if you don't feel confident doing it yourself. They'll require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of the vehicle to program the new key for the right vehicle. This service is fast and simple, making it an excellent option if you need to buy the new car key fob in the last minute.
Reprogramming
Many people have difficulty to reprogram their car key fobs. This is due to the fact the different vehicles have different programming sequences. Certain require special equipment to access and entry, while others require key-cylinders and button presses to complete cycles to complete.
A locksmith is the best person to contact to reprogram your car keyfob. A locksmith can assist you with replacement parts and key cutting services and programming to get your keys working quickly and efficiently. This will save you the time and cost of purchasing and reprogramming a completely new set of key fobs.
Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob it is an excellent idea to test the batteries first. If the battery has been drained and needs to be replaced, you'll have a greater chance of success. You should also consider keeping a spare keyfob on hand in case of need.
You should also have a spare keyfob along with all the tools you need. These tools include a screwdriver as well as a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers, and keys. The tools will give you to access the internal circuit board and remove the existing key fob without damaging or rendering it unusable.
Once you've put all of your equipment in place, it's time to start the reprogramming process. It's best to get into the vehicle from the driver's seat and closing all the doors, EXCEPT for the driver's. It is also recommended to close any other electronic fobs you want to program. Press the lock button on the desired key fob multiple times. This will cause an "lock sound" and signal that you've entered programming mode. Press the lock button again within five seconds and you'll be finished with the reprogramming process.
The steps described in this article will be able to be used with the majority of automobiles. Some vehicles will require a deeper understanding of the onboard programming system. If your vehicle was manufactured after 2010 or is a premium model the procedure will be more complicated and require specialized hardware.
Replacement
If your car's key fob simply won't turn on or unlock your car it could be time to replace it. A new key fob can be costly but it's the most efficient and safest option if the old one doesn't work.
You can typically find replacement key fobs at car parts stores, some hardware stores, and some big-box retailers. They can also be found on the internet or in specialist car stores. You can save money by opening the fob and replacing the battery yourself. A small screwdriver with a flat blade is often all that's needed to break the fob's casing open and replace the battery. You can then reassemble the fob's key and then test the buttons to make sure they are functioning properly.
It's important that you have a spare key fob for your car, as it can be a hassle when yours ceases to function. Luckily, most times when your car key fob doesn't function, it's not because of an issue that is serious and can be fixed by replacing the battery or reprogramming it. In some instances, the fob might require a complete replacement.
Make sure your key fob is clean. Over time, dust can accumulate inside a car key fob's remote, and block up its circuitry. This could cause a button to get stuck, or cease to respond to signals sent by your vehicle's keys.
Certain fobs can be cleaned with water or a mild cleaner. It is best to leave cleaning a car keyfob with a professional who specialize in this kind of repair. If you're not sure you're not sure, consult your owner's manual or the Internet for instructions.
If you've lost your key fob and cannot find it, you may have to contact your dealer to have an extra key programmed. Some car dealerships have equipment that can reprogram the chip on a key fob after it's replaced. This is a costly option, but it's the only option to return to the road.