Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, like any piece of high-tech equipment it is not without its own problems.
These are usually very easy to repair. It is as easy as resetting it, which you should be able to accomplish by following the resetting instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in the key fob. It's a small and inexpensive part that should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons your fob isn't working. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. Regardless of the cause the key fob is unresponsive, it's time to replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by the standard CR2032 three-volt battery which is readily available in many stores. The size of most of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact type of battery you need.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob before you do so to ensure you put everything back together the right way. This simple step can help you avoid needing to purchase a new fob simply because you made an error while making it.
Some key fobs also 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 driver's door of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. To open the blade of the key, you must find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you're looking to test the battery's voltage using extra care, you can use a multimeter. Most modern key fobs come with a voltmeter built into their casings, however you can also purchase an extra multimeter for a few dollars from most hardware stores. In general, the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading below that level could indicate a battery in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items however, they're not indestructible. They can cease functioning after a period of time, particularly when they are used frequently or were subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, a majority of the times it's easy to determine and fix a problem with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is usually all that's required.
Many modern-day car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions like locking and unlocking the doors and activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs include an option to start the car, which is particularly useful on cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be taken apart however, the battery connectors on a key fob could become loose as time passes. If the buttons' contacts are disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job is enough to get them back into place and allow the fob back to full functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to repair on your own. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them with the right equipment and expertise.
It's always a good idea to keep an extra key somewhere in case one you use regularly stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay a lot to have the car towed to the dealer. You should also examine your insurance policy for your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine whether it will cover the cost of programming or replacing the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for the key fob to become submerged, whether 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 thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
First, make sure whether the buttons function properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
You'll also want to check the case to ensure nothing is interfering with the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and remove the battery but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you disrupt the circuits that keep your key fob's programming, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced your battery, it's recommended to dry the key fob by putting it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will avoid future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can go to a dealership or an independent shop, that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob of your specific vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes function just like the factory fob but much cheaper. They can be easily connected to your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the cost and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will simply stop working, even though it's still connected to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to ensure is that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does, you may have issues with your primary remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
Before replacing the battery It's an excellent idea to take off your key fob and perform a visual examination of the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be re-soldering. After that you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
After auto key repair have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to break the two halves of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing down. After you have reinserted the board and reassembled your key fob.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you could have a larger issue. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a repair shop that specializes in the car's model. They can identify the issue with a radio frequency test, which is a device that determines whether or not your key fob is transmitting a signal to the car's computer.
This guide will be helpful for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. If you have any other questions or issues, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.