Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped 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.
These are usually very easy to fix. It can be as simple as resetting the device and you should be able to accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small piece of equipment that has to be replaced on a regular basis to maintain the functionality of the key fob. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob might not be functioning properly. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob is not working, replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can identify the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
The fob must be opened carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob prior to you do so to ensure that you put it back together in the correct way. This simple step can save you from needing to purchase a new fob because you made an error when making it.
Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and allows you to open the driver's side door in the event that your remote control doesn't work. In order to access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's in the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to be extra cautious, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can get a multimeter at many hardware stores for a few dollars. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or more. A reading lower than that could mean that the battery is at its end and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like little more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however they're not impervious to damage. It's not uncommon for these remotes to cease working after a while, especially when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there's a lot of physical abuse that is associated with it. In most cases it is easy to identify a problem and fix one by using a remote fob. In most cases all that's required is an upgrade to the battery.
The majority of modern car keys have numerous buttons for various functions like locking and unlocking doors and activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob transmits an audio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs have buttons to start the car, which is particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob are reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring that they are not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be disassembled, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob may become loose over time. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they have been disconnected. This will allow the fob to function again.
In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons could be broken, out of alignment or misaligned. These problems are more difficult to fix on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them using the right tools and experience.
It's always recommended to keep an extra fob in case one of the ones you use regularly stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your vehicle towed to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play havoc with the electronic components inside, causing numerous malfunctions. The good thing is that a key fob can often be saved from death's edge by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are functioning properly. This usually involves taking them out and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't functioning or appear to be able to open, it could be the time to replace your remote.
You'll also want to check the case to make sure nothing is interfering with the function of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and take out the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programming to your vehicle, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you have removed and replaced the battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it into a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will prevent future problems with moisture and make your key fob more robust.
Finally, if the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your specific make and model of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob of your particular vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased through the internet or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes look just as the factory key fob but are much less expensive and can be easily connected 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 re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob may cease to function - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your backup remote can lock and unlock your car's doors. If it does, then you probably have an issue with your primary remote. If you can't, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
Before replacing the battery It's a good idea to pull apart your key fob and do a visual inspection of the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that need to be replaced with solder. After you're finished you can replace your key fob battery and rebuild it.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled the key fob, it's now time to test the connection with your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this doesn't work, then there is a bigger problem. In this situation, you will need to call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. car key fob repair can pinpoint the issue using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines whether or not your key fob is transmitting a signal to your car's computer.
We hope that this guide was helpful for anyone who is having issues with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.