Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of modern technology it is not without its own problems.
They are generally easy to repair. You can reset it by following the instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small, inexpensive part that should be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functionality. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped working then replace the battery.
First, ensure you have the correct size battery. Almost all modern key fobs use the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit which is readily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. You can find the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Take your key fob apart 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 could help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob simply because you made an error when putting it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and permits you to access your car's driver's door in the event that your remote control isn't working. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch at the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to test the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can use the multimeter. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also purchase an extra multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items, but car key fobs aren't durable. They can cease functioning after a period of time, particularly when they are used frequently or if they were subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, most of the times, it's simple to identify and repair a problem with remote key fobs, and changing the battery is typically all that's needed.
Modern car key fobs come with numerous buttons that serve different functions. For example they can unlock and lock the doors, activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio signal to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which can be particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of the key fob can be reset by simply snapping the device apart and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob could get loose in time, even though they are not intended to be disassembled. Soldering is a method to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been cut off. This will restore the fob's functionality.
In addition, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons may be damaged, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These kinds of issues are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop that has the right tools and expertise.
It's always recommended to keep an extra key somewhere in the event that one you use regularly stops working. This can prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Also, you should check your insurance policy on your car 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 unusual for a key fob to get wet, be it from a pool, storm or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronics. The good thing is that keys can typically be saved from a cliff by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are still functioning properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
Check the case to ensure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and remove the battery. Do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programming you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you have replaced and removed the battery, it's recommended to dry the key fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and make the battery last longer.
If key repair car does not work, you can visit a dealership, or an independent shop, that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If you're not able to find the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes are similar to the original fob, but are more affordable. They can be easily connected to your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may cease to function even though it is still programmed for your vehicle. It could be due to many reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. You could be able to fix the problem yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to ensure is that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't then there could be an issue with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
It's a great idea to disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracked solder joints. After that you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's now time to test out its connection with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be able to break the two parts of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing down. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, you are able to put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work for you, then there is a bigger problem. In this case, call your dealer or a service shop that is specialized in the car's model. They can determine the problem with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance for anyone who has issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.