Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of modern technology it is not without its own issues.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to resolve. It's as simple as resetting the device and you should be able accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery inside a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive component that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the cause. If your key fob's battery has stopped working Replace the battery.
First, ensure that you have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs use a common three-volt CR2032 battery that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. The size of many of these batteries is stamped on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the exact kind of battery that it uses.
When you have the correct battery then carefully open your key fob and remove its 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 trick will prevent you from having to purchase another fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. This key blade is located inside the key fob, and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To get to the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to be extra cautious you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can get a multimeter in the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. In general, the battery should read 3.0 volts or more. If it is below that level, it could indicate that the battery is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs might appear to be nothing more than modern, high-tech gadgets however they're not impervious to damage. It's not uncommon for remotes to cease working after a time, particularly when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there's an excessive amount of physical abuse associated with it. Most of the time, it's easy to diagnose a problem and fix one with a remote fob. Most of the time all that's needed is an updated battery.
Modern car key fobs come with multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance they can be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button, and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it transmits a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Certain fobs come with an option to start the car, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset simply by taking the device apart and ensuring they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can be loose in time, even though they aren't designed to be disassembled. Soldering can be used to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they have been disconnected. This will restore the fob's functionality.
In addition, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be damaged or out of alignment, or otherwise misaligned. These issues are more difficult to fix by yourself. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
It's always recommended to keep a spare fob somewhere in the event that one of the ones that you frequently use fails to function. car key fob repairs can prevent you from being stranded without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have the vehicle towing back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It can happen due to the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronics inside, leading to a host of malfunctions. It's important to be aware that you can save your key fob from dying by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
First, check that the buttons still work properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace your remote.
Check the case to ensure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and take out the battery. Don't disassemble the antennas or circuit board. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced your battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will avoid any future issues with moisture and make your key fob more durable.
If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership, or an independent shop that is specialized in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob of your 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 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 cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will just stop working - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be due various reasons, including damaged battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by carrying out basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it does, then you may have a problem with your main remote. If you are still unable to do it, you can try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before replacing the battery, it's a good idea to pull off the key fob and perform an inspection of the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that require to be re-soldering. After you're finished, you can replace the battery on your key fob and reassemble it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, make sure you test its connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. You can then 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 inserted with the negative side facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you can rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't work for you, then you may have a larger issue. In this case, call your dealer or a repair shop that specializes in your car's make. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, an instrument that determines if your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the computer in your car.
Hopefully, this guide has been useful for anyone having issues with their vehicle's key fob. 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.