Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there can be problems.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. It can be as simple as resetting the device which you should be able to do by following the resetting guidelines in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the function of the device. There are a variety of reasons your key fob may not be working besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. Regardless of the cause when your key fob isn't responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, ensure you have the correct size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs utilize the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that's easily available at many stores. The size of most of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. You can identify 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 make sure you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from purchasing an entirely new fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs have an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. This key blade is located inside the key fob and it lets you unlock the door of the driver's seat of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch that's in 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 vigilant, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can purchase a multimeter at the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or more. If it reads lower than that, it could indicate the battery is on its last legs and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like high-tech, fancy convenience items but keys for cars aren't indestructible. It's not uncommon for these remotes to cease working after a time, particularly when the vehicle is being used frequently or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse associated with it. In most cases, it's easy to diagnose the issue and fix it with the remote fob. Usually all that's required is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs come with numerous buttons that serve different functions. For instance, they can be used to lock and unlock the doors and activate the panic button and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is useful on cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be disassembled however, the battery connectors on a key fob can be loose as time passes. If the contacts on the button are disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job could be enough to get them back in place and allow the fob back to full function.
In addition, if a fob has been dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons could be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to repair by yourself. However an auto repair shop in your area 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 use is not working as often. You can avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere without keys, or paying a lot to have the vehicle taken to the dealer. Also, you should examine your insurance policy on your car or car club membership extended warranty coverage to determine whether it covers the cost of programming or replacing the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to become wet. This can happen from the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a range of malfunctions in the electronic components. The good part is that keys can typically be saved from death's edge by drying it thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
First, make sure whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually means removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to make sure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and take out 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 your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob by placing it into an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent any future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that specializes in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your particular vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes are just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of replacements that you can re-program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might cease to function even though it's programmed for your vehicle. This could be due many reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
You should first confirm whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it does, then you probably have an issue with your primary remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea to take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. After you've finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and reassemble it.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test out its connection with your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to pry apart the two pieces of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you might have a larger problem. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can identify the issue with a radio frequency test, which is a device that can determine if your key fob is transmitting signals to the computer in your car.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone who is having issues with their car key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be glad to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!