Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there can be problems.
Usually these are very simple to fix. It is as easy as resetting the device which you should be able to do by following the instructions for resetting in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery inside the key fob. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are a variety of reasons your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. Whatever the reason, if your key fob's sensor is not responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, ensure that you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032, which is easily available in a wide range of stores. The majority of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you locate the specific type of battery it takes.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can save you from buying an entirely new fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and permits you to open the driver's side door in case the remote control isn't working. To access the blade of the key, you must locate the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to be extra cautious, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings, however you can also purchase a multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items however, keys for cars aren't durable. They can cease working after some time, especially if they are used often or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, the majority of times it's easy to determine and repair a problem with a remote key fob, and changing the battery is often all that is required.
Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For example, they can unlock and lock the doors and activate the panic button, and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which can be particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't made to be removed, but the battery connectors on a key fob can be loose as time passes. Soldering is a method to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they have been disconnected. This will allow the fob to function again.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons may be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These types of problems are typically more difficult to repair on your own but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop that has the right equipment and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in an area that is secure in the event that the one you use frequently stops working. This will prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Also, you should examine your car insurance policy or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to determine if it will cover the cost of programming or replacing the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for keys to get wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause destruction on the electronic components inside, causing numerous malfunctions. The good news is that a key fob can often be saved from the brink of death by drying out thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are still functioning properly. This usually involves removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be the time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers, and then remove the battery. Don't remove the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programed to your car, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll have to go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have removed and replaced your battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob by placing it in the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will avoid any future issues with moisture and make your key fob more robust.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can go to a dealership or an independent shop, that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the key fob for your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If all else fails, an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased through the internet or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes look like the original key fob, but are much more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the expense and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may not function, even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. It could be due to a number of factors that include damaged battery contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be capable of fixing it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can, then you probably have a problem with your main remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's an excellent idea to take off the key fob and do an inspection of the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracked solder joints. Once you're done with that you can replace the battery and rebuild 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 small flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you are able to rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't solve the problem, you may have a more serious issue. In this situation you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the make of your car. They can identify the issue using a radio-frequency tester, which is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits signals to the computer in your car.
We hope that this guide was helpful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. car keys repairs 'll be glad to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.