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 can be problems.
They are typically very simple to repair. You can reset it by following the directions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced on a regular basis to maintain the functionality of the fob. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons your key fob isn't working. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning Replace the battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery, which is easily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your car's brand will help you identify the specific type of battery it takes.
The fob must be opened carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob prior to you do this to ensure that you put it back together in the correct way. This simple step can save you from buying another fob because you made a mistake when making it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. This is found inside the key fob and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in case the remote control doesn't work. To get to the blade of the key, you must find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to be extra vigilant, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with an integrated voltmeter, however you can purchase a multimeter from many hardware stores for a few bucks. In general the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading that is lower than this could indicate the battery is at its end and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem to be nothing more than, high-tech convenience items, but they aren't indestructible. They can cease working after some time, especially when they are frequently used or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. In most cases it's simple to spot the issue and fix it by using the remote fob. remote car key repairs of the time all that's needed is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs come with multiple buttons that perform different functions. For example, they can lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button, and open the trunk. When you press a button the fob sends out an audio signal using the code that is interpreted by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which is particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on the key fob can be reset simply by snapping the device in two and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically made to be removed, but the battery connectors on a key fob may be loose over time. If the buttons' contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job can be enough to get them back on track and return the fob to full functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to repair by yourself. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe place in the event that the one you use most often stops working. This will to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have the vehicle towing back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It can happen due to an in-ground pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak havoc with the electronics inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's good to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a few easy steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and take out the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob programmed to your car, and when you break the circuits, you'll have to go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have replaced and removed your battery, it is an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by putting it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will help prevent any future issues with moisture and will make your key fob more durable.
Finally, if the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your particular type of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your particular vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails then you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look like your factory fob, but are much less expensive and can be easily connected with your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of replacements that you can re-program within a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may cease to function even though it is still programmed for your vehicle. It could be due to a variety of reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it does, then you might have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
It's a great idea to take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done you can replace your key fob battery and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then break your key fob's two halves and then gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, you can put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't resolve the issue, you could have a larger issue. In this case, you will need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the specific model of your car. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, an instrument that determines if your key fob transmits a signal to the computer in your car.
This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!