Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there are problems.
Usually these are very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive part that should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functioning. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped working then replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand will help you identify the exact type of battery it takes.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from purchasing a new fob because you made a mistake when making it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. This key blade is located within the key fob and it lets you unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. In order to access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's in the center of your fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to be extra cautious, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings. However, you can also purchase an extra multimeter for a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or higher. A reading below that level could indicate that the battery is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs might appear like nothing more than fancy modern, high-tech gadgets however they're not impervious to damage. It's not uncommon for these remotes to cease working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there's an excessive amount of physical abuse associated with it. Most of the time it is easy to identify an issue and fix it by using a remote fob. Most of the time, all that is needed is an upgrade to the battery.
Many modern-day car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions, such as locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When the button is pressed, the fob sends a radio signal with a code that is recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which can be especially handy on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping the device in two and checking to make sure they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be disassembled however, the battery connectors on a key fob can be loose over time. Soldering is a method to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they have been disconnected. This will allow the fob to function again.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These types of problems are generally more difficult to repair on your own but they can be resolved by an auto repair shop in your area with the proper tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you use frequently stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or paying an enormous amount to have the car transported to the dealer. Also, you should check your insurance policy for your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to see if it covers the cost of programming or replacing a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a key fob to get wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronic. The good part is that keys can typically be kept from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are working correctly. try what she says means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons do not pop back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to make sure there is nothing that could be affecting the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and remove the battery. Don't remove the antennas or circuit board. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programed to your car, and when you break the circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you've replaced and removed the battery it's a good idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If the fob is still not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your particular model and make of vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails, an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes look just as the factory key fob however, they are more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may cease to function even though it's programmed for your car. This could be due various reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
You should first confirm whether your backup remote capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your car. If it does, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
Before replacing the battery, it's a good idea to pull off your key fob and perform an inspection of the circuit board. Check for cracked solder joints. After you're finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and reassemble it.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and then gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's placed with the negative side facing down. After you have reinserted the board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you might have a larger issue. In this case you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the model of the car you own. They can diagnose the issue using a radio-frequency tester, which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. We'll be delighted to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!