Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there could be issues.
Usually these are very simple to resolve. It is as easy as resetting the device, which you should be able to accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. It's a tiny and affordable component that needs to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. There are many other reasons your key fob might not be functioning properly, besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped functioning then replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the correct size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs are powered by a common three-volt CR2032 battery that's easily available at many stores. The size of most of these batteries is engraved on the edges of the key fob. You can identify the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photograph of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple step can save you from having to purchase an entirely new fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob, and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To access the blade of the key, you must find the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can use the multimeter. Most modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings, but you can also get a multimeter for just a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items but keys for cars aren't indestructible. It isn't unusual for these remotes to fail after a while, especially when the vehicle is used frequently or if there's lots of physical abuse that is associated with it. In most cases it's simple to spot the issue and fix it with the remote fob. Most of the time all that's needed is an upgrade to the battery.
A lot of modern car key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions, such as locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When auto key repair on the fob is pressed, it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which can be especially useful during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on the key fob can be reset by snapping the device in two and then checking to ensure they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may be loose in time, even though they are not designed to be removed. If the buttons' contacts have been disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job can be enough to get them back on track and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
Additionally, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be damaged, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These issues are more difficult to repair on your own. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them using the right tools and experience.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe place, just in the event that the one you use is not working as often. This can to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to become wet. It could be the result of an in-ground pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronics inside, leading to numerous malfunctions. It's a good idea to know that you can save your key fob from destruction by following a couple of simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
First, make sure whether the buttons are working properly. This usually involves removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons are stuck or don't come in, it might be the time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and take out the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programming, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery it's recommended to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag with silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future moisture issues and help the battery last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can go to a dealership or an independent shop that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If auto key repair fails If all else fails, you can buy a replacement keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes are just like the factory fob but much cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it yourself replacements that can be programmed within a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Occasionally, your key fob will simply stop working, even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by doing some basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify whether your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it does it, then you might have a problem in your main remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before replacing the battery it's an excellent idea to take off your key fob and perform an inspection of the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that need to be re-soldering. Once you're done with that you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board and reassembled your key fob.
If this doesn't work for you, then you have a bigger issue. In this situation, you will have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the model of the car you own. They can identify the issue using a radio frequency tester that is a device that determines if your key fob is transmitting a signal to the computer in your car.
This guide will be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. We'll be happy to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.