It’s been a long day, and you’re ready to put on your pajamas and eat pizza, and watch your favorite show. Then you realize your keys to your car have disappeared.
Make sure the battery is charged first if you own the remote car key repair near me control to unlock your car’s doors and then start it or direct it to a parking space (consult the owner’s manual for more details).
Dead Key Fob Battery
It’s not fun to have your key car repair fob not work suddenly. It can be a stressful and even risky, especially if you are in the middle of a rush. Modern cars are stocked with security features that can assist you in this circumstance.
The most frequent reason a key fob stops working is, Car Key Fob Repairs Near Me as you’d think, the battery has failed. If you have a spare key fob, or a spare battery this is a simple fix. The fob can be opened by tearing it open, taking out the old battery, and replacing it with the same type of battery. Then, snap it back together, making sure to line up the halves correctly and to test it once you’re done.
If your car was not already programed to work with the system you might need to re-programme it after replacing the battery. You can do it yourself by switching your key to «ON» (which will turn on the screens, instrument panel and ignition but not the ignition), and then pressing the lock or Car Key Fob Repairs Near Me unlock buttons on your fob. After that, turn the key back to the LOCK setting and your vehicle should be able to recognize the fob, and work properly.
Button Issues
It’s not uncommon for buttons to wear out on the key fob because it’s a tiny plastic piece that is subject to the brunt of abuse. If you’ve noticed that one button isn’t performing as well as it did in the past and it’s a sign of a issue.
If the issue is still present after changing the battery, open the fob for an inspection. Look for signs of damage such as broken or cracked buttons or tiny electronic components that aren’t completely connected to the circuit boards or oxidized contacts. If you notice any of these problems the key fob could require replacement. It will also have to be programmed for the vehicle.
You can also test the key fob in a spare vehicle to determine if it functions there. If the key works in another vehicle, the issue is with the responder in your car or the key fob itself, not the battery.
Also, it is possible that the key fob has been damaged by a physical injury or water damage. It could happen when the keyfob is dropped or overturned, or dragged in water. It could also be damaged if your key fob has been ripped open in the course of a repair car keys or service job. In certain cases this could be corrected by reconnecting the loose buttons to their original position or by having a professional look over the key fob.
Complex Issues
If your key fob battery is dead or the buttons don’t work it’s time to call an locksmith for in-depth car key fob repair. Before calling an expert locksmith, try a few DIY fixes.
If the keys stop working after being thrown, stepped on, or wet, it could be a sign that the housing on the fob is damaged. This is a much more complicated and costly repair than simply replacing the battery.
Smart key transmitters are constructed to take a beating but the circuit board is delicate and can be easily damaged when abused. Like many electrical systems, the circuit has a fuse that blows if there’s an overload or short in the system. This issue is often manifested as other electrical issues within the vehicle, for example, the horn being off or the lights not being turned on.
Most automakers offer instructions on how to replace a fob’s fuses in their owners’ guides. Depending on the brand and model, there are also numerous online videos that guide you through the process step-by-step. If you’re looking to spend money on an aftermarket replacement, most parts departments will be able to recognize the fob model of your car and then order it for you. You can save money by avoiding the dealer.
Replacement
While it’s not fun to experience malfunctioning keys but it can be stressful when you are already late for work. In these instances replacing the battery is often the most effective alternative. Fortunately, it is easy to perform and is usually done in just a few minutes.
The first step is opening the fob. The two halves are usually separated by a slit that can be opened using the flat bladed screwdriver. You may need to pull the covers apart a little to remove them, but once you do this, it’s easy to remove the old battery. Install the new battery after removing the cover. Batteries are usually shaped like small coins with plus and minus symbols on them to indicate their orientation. It is important that you find the correct orientation otherwise the battery will not work.
After the battery is in place, snap the fob back together and test it. Most likely, it will make a clicking noise when it’s properly fitted and all the buttons are lined up. If your battery still isn’t working, make sure you check the warranty or roadside assistance coverage of your vehicle in case you have to replace it. If it is not, you can purchase replacements at a local Batteries Plus store for about half the cost of what you would pay at the dealership.