Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock and start the car. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there are problems.
Usually these are very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in your owner’s manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny piece of equipment that has to be replaced frequently to ensure the functionality of the key fob. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob isn't working. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. If repair car keys has stopped working Replace the battery.
First, ensure you have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery that is readily available in a wide range of stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is stamped 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 it takes.
Open your key fob carefully and take out the original battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple trick will prevent you from having to purchase a new fob if you made an error when putting it back together.
It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an alternate mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. This is located within the fob's key and allows you to access your car's driver's door in the event that your remote control fails to function. To access the key blade, you have to locate the notch at the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to be extra vigilant, you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also get an extra multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. 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 final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear to be nothing more than high-tech items for convenience however, they're not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remote devices to stop working after a while, especially if the vehicle is frequented or there is a lot of physical abuse associated with it. Fortunately, the majority of time it can be easy to diagnose and fix the issue with a remote key fob, and replacing the battery is usually all that's needed.
A lot of modern car keys have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking the doors as well as activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When you press a button the fob transmits an audio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver in the car. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which can be especially handy in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may become loose over time, even though they are not intended to be disassembled. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they have been disconnected. This will bring back the fob's functionality.
Additionally, if a fob was dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons may be broken or out of alignment, or misaligned. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by an auto repair shop in your area with the proper tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob a safe location in the event that the one you use is not working as often. This can to avoid being stuck without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have your vehicle towed back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a key fob to get wet, whether from a pool, a rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronic. The good part is that keys can typically be saved from death's edge by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are functioning properly. This usually involves removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons aren't functioning or 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 remove the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery it's recommended to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but more affordable. They are easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may cease to function even though it's programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be due various reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to ensure is that your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't then there could be an issue with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote.
It's a great idea take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. Check for cracked solder joints. After that you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you're now ready to test its connection with your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to take apart the two pieces of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you have reinserted the board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this does not resolve the issue, you might have a larger issue. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a repair shop that specializes in your car's make. They can diagnose the problem with a radio frequency test, which is a device that can determine if your key fob is sending a signal to your car's computer.
This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any additional questions or issues, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be glad to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!