Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there can be problems.
They are generally easy to repair. It's as simple as resetting it, which you should be able accomplish by following the resetting instructions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery in the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. It's a tiny and affordable part that should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functionality. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your key fob may not be working. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component failure could be the cause. Regardless of the cause when your key fob's sensor is not responding, it's time for a replacement battery.
First, ensure 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 a wide range of stores. Most of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can find the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Open your key fob carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can save you from having to purchase an entirely new fob if you made a mistake when making it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with 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 the remote control fails to function. To access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch in the center of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to test the battery's voltage with extra care, you can use a multimeter. remote car key repair have an voltmeter embedded in their casings. However, you can also purchase a multimeter for a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or more. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like nothing more than fancy high-tech items for convenience, but they aren't indestructible. Remotes can stop functioning after a certain period of time, especially when they are frequently used or were subjected to physical abuse. In most cases it is easy to identify an issue and fix it by using a remote fob. In most cases, all that is needed is an upgrade to the battery.
The majority of modern car key fobs feature several buttons that can be used for various purposes like locking and unlocking the doors as well as activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio signal to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which is especially handy on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset simply by snapping the device in two and then checking to ensure they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may get loose over time, even though they are not designed to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job is enough to get them back in place and restore the fob to full functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to fix by yourself. However a local auto shop can fix them using the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you are using is not working as often. This can keep you from being left without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have the vehicle towing back to the dealer. Also, you should examine your insurance policy for your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing or programming the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to become wet. It can happen due to a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a range of issues with the electronics. The good part is that the key fob can usually be saved from death's edge by drying out thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
First, make sure that the buttons still work correctly. This usually involves removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons are stuck or don't come in, it might be time to replace your remote.
You'll also want to check the case to make sure nothing is interfering with the functioning of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers, and then remove the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob's programming to your vehicle, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have removed and replaced your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob by placing it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will help prevent future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can visit a dealership, or an independent shop that specializes in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your specific vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails then you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These DIY remotes look as the factory key fob but are much more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the expense 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
Occasionally your key fob may cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including damaged battery contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be capable of fixing it yourself by doing some basic maintenance.
You should first check whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it does it, then you might have issues with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that need to be re-soldering. After that, you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, make sure you test the connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. You can then pry apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuitboard. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing down. After you have reinserted the board and reassembled your key fob.
If this doesn't work, then you may have a larger issue. In this instance you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the model of your car. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits a signal to the car's computer.
We hope that this guide has been useful for anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.