Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. However, like any piece of high-tech equipment, it can sometimes experience problems.
These are usually very easy to repair. It can be as simple as resetting the device, which you should be able do by following the resetting guidelines in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery of the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are other reasons why your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. Whatever the cause, if your key fob isn't responding it's time to replace the battery.
First, ensure that related web-site have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs use the standard CR2032 three-volt battery which is readily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the fob's edges. You can identify the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the right battery then carefully open the key fob and remove its existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do so to ensure you put everything back together in the correct way. This simple step can save you from buying a new fob if you made an error when putting it back together.
Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. This key blade is located within the key fob and allows you to unlock the driver's door of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. To get to the blade of the key, locate the notch that lies in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery's voltage with extra caution, you can use a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can get a multimeter from many hardware stores for a few bucks. Generally speaking, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or higher. If it reads lower than that, it could indicate the battery is in its last days and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items, but they aren't indestructible. They can cease functioning after a certain period of time, particularly when they are used frequently or were subjected to physical abuse. In most cases it is easy to identify an issue and fix it with the remote fob. Usually all that's needed is an upgrade to the battery.
Modern car key fobs come with multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance they can lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button, and even open the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob transmits an audio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs include an option to start the car, which is especially useful during cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset by simply taking the device apart and ensuring they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of the key fob can become loose over time, despite the fact that they aren't intended to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have been disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to put them back into place and restore the fob to its full functionality.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These types of problems are usually more difficult to solve on your own, but they can be resolved by a local auto shop that has the right equipment and experience.
It's always recommended to keep a spare fob somewhere in the event that one you use regularly stops working. This can keep you from being left without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have your vehicle towing back to the dealer. It is also advisable to check your insurance policy on your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to see if it covers the cost of programming or replacing a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for the key fob to become wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction on the electronic components inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's good to know that you can save your key fob from dying by following a few easy steps and thoroughly drying it.
First, check whether the buttons function correctly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons are stuck or don't pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to make sure there's nothing blocking the function of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery but do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These have electric current running through them, which keeps the key fob programmed to your car, and when you break the circuits, you'll have to go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery it's recommended to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag with silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future issues with moisture and will make your key fob more durable.
If, after all this, the fob is still not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your particular model and make of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob of your particular vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
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-operated remotes look like the original key fob, however, they are more affordable and can be easily connected with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the high cost and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your key fob might cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. This could be caused by various reasons that include broken batteries or buttons. It is possible to fix the problem yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
You should first check that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it can't it, then you might have issues with your primary remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
It's a great idea to disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracked solder joints. After you've finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and rebuild it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuitboard. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it is placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't work, then you may have a larger issue. In this case you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can pinpoint the issue by using a radio frequency tester, which is a device that determines if your key fob is transmitting an indication to your car's computer.
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. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.