Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there are problems.
They are typically very simple to repair. You can reset it by following the instructions in your owner’s manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small, inexpensive component that needs to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functioning. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your key fob may not be working. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob is not working, replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery that is readily available in a variety of stores. car keys repair of many of these batteries is stamped on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the specific type of battery it takes.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the current battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do this to make sure that you put it back together in the correct way. This simple step will save you from having to purchase a new fob because you made a mistake when making it back together.
You should also be aware that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This is found inside the fob's key and allows you to access your car's driver's door in case the remote control doesn't work. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch at the center of your fob. The notch is typically a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you're looking to be extra cautious you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have a built-in voltmeter, but you can get a multimeter from many hardware stores for a few bucks. In general the battery should be reading 3.0 Volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate that the battery is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be modern, high-tech items of convenience but keys for cars aren't impervious to destruction. They can cease functioning after a certain period of time, particularly when they are used frequently or were subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, the majority of time it can be easy to determine and fix the issue with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is often all that's required.
vehicle key repairs of modern car key fobs have several buttons that can be used for various purposes like locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which can be especially handy in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob are reset by taking it apart and checking that they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose over time, even though they aren't designed to be removed. Soldering is a way to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been disconnected. This will restore the fob's functionality.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons could be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned. These types of issues are generally more difficult to fix on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob a safe location, just in case the one you use most often stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay a lot to have the car taken to the dealer. Also, you should look over your car insurance policy or car club membership extended warranty coverage to determine if it covers the cost of programming or replacing an entirely new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for a key fob to get submerged, whether from a pool, a rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a variety of malfunctions in the electronics. The good part is that keys can typically be kept from a cliff by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
First, check whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons aren't functioning or appear to be able to open, it could be the time to replace your remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to ensure there's nothing blocking the functioning of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and remove the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programed to your car, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll need go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have removed and replaced your battery, it's recommended to dry the key fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will help prevent future moisture issues and make the battery last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you should visit a dealership, or an independent shop, that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob of your specific vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it yourself remotes are similar to the factory fob but much cheaper. They can be easily connected to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of replacements that you can re-program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob may just stop working - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to various reasons that include damaged batteries or buttons. If this is the case, you might be capable of fixing it yourself by carrying out basic maintenance.
You should first check whether your backup remote able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it can't, you might have problems with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's a good idea to pull off your key fob and conduct a visual examination of the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that must be re-soldering. After you're finished, you can replace your key fob battery and put it back together.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled the key fob, you're now ready to test out its connection with your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart your key fob's two halves and then gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this doesn't work, you have a bigger issue. In this situation you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the specific model of the car you own. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.
This guide should be helpful for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.