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 directions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery of a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small piece of equipment that has to be replaced frequently in order to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be working besides the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning, replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 which is easily found in a wide range 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 car's brand will help you identify 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 so to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from purchasing another fob because you made a mistake when making it back together.
You should also be aware that certain key fobs come with a backup mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. This is found inside the key fob and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that your remote control doesn't work. In order to access the key blade, you need to locate the notch in the center 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 cautious, 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 buy a multimeter from the majority of hardware stores for a few bucks. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading below that level could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be sophisticated, luxurious convenience items but car key fobs aren't durable. It's not uncommon for remotes to cease working after a time, particularly when the vehicle is being frequented or there's an excessive amount of physical abuse involving it. Most of the time it is easy to identify a problem and fix one with a remote fob. In most cases all that's required is an upgrade to the battery.
A lot of modern car key fobs feature multiple buttons for different functions including locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob transmits a radio signal with an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver in the car. Certain fobs come with buttons to start the car, which is 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 checking to make sure they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be disassembled, but the battery connectors on a key fob can get loose as time passes. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been cut off. This will bring back the fob's functionality.
In addition, if a fob was dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons might be broken or out of alignment, or otherwise misaligned. 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 a spare key fob a safe place in case the one you use is not working as often. You can avoid being stranded in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying for a large amount to have your vehicle taken to the dealer. It is also advisable to examine your insurance policy for your car or car club membership extended warranty coverage to see whether it covers the cost of replacing or programming a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for keys to get wet, be it from a pool, a rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronics inside, leading to many malfunctions. The good part is that keys can typically be saved from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves taking them out the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. buttons. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and take out the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programming it will be required to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's recommended to dry the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent future issues with moisture and will help the battery last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in the model and make of your vehicle. They can re-program the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully return the function to its original state.
If all else fails If all else fails, you can buy a replacement keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes look just as the factory key fob but are much more affordable and are able to be paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of replacements that you can program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may stop working even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be due various reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be able to fix it yourself by performing basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If remote car key repairs can, then you might have a problem with your main remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's an excellent idea to take off your key fob and do an examination of the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. After you're finished you can replace the battery in your key fob and rebuild it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, make sure you 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 the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing down. After you've inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't solve the problem, you may have a larger problem. In this case, call your dealer or a repair shop that is specifically geared to the make of your vehicle. They can pinpoint the issue by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines if your key fob is sending signals to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone who is having issues with their car key fob. If you have any other questions or issues, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!