Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock or start the car. However, as with any piece of high-tech equipment it isn't without issues.
Usually these are very simple to fix. It is as easy as resetting it and you should be able accomplish by following the resetting instructions in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive component that needs to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functioning. There are other reasons why your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning Replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. The majority of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact type of battery it takes.
When you have the correct battery, carefully open the key fob and take out its battery. Photograph the inside of the fob before you do this to ensure you put everything back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from having to purchase an entirely new fob if you made an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and allows you to unlock the door of the driver's seat of your car 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 a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to test the battery's voltage using more care, use a multimeter. Most modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings, but you can also get a multimeter for a few dollars from most hardware stores. In general the battery should read 3.0 volts or more. A reading lower than that could mean that the battery is on its last legs and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem to be nothing more than, high-tech convenience items however they're not impervious to damage. It's not uncommon for these remote devices to stop working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there is a lot of physical abuse associated with it. In most cases it's simple to spot an issue and fix it by using a remote fob. Most of the time all that's required is an updated battery.
Many modern-day car key fobs feature multiple buttons for different functions like locking and unlocking the doors as well as 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 also have a button that can start the engine, which can be particularly useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob could be loose in time, even though they are not designed to be removed. If the buttons' contacts are disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job can be enough to put them back in place and restore the fob to full function.
Additionally, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons may be damaged or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These issues are more difficult to repair by yourself. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe place in the event that the one you are using most often stops working. This can help keep you from being left without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have your vehicle towed 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 car key repair 's not unusual for keys to get wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of malfunctions within the electronic components. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be kept from death's edge by drying it thoroughly and executing a few simple steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are still functioning properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
Check the case to ensure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and remove the battery but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed it will be required to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery, it's a good idea to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future problems with moisture and make your key fob more robust.
If the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your particular type of vehicle. They can re-program the key fob to your vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If nothing else works then you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are just like the factory key fob, but more affordable. They can be easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the cost and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your key fob may just stop working - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. This could be due many reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you may be able to fix it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance.
You should first check that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it can, then you probably have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to try replacing 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. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that must be replaced with solder. Once you're done replacing the battery in your key fob and put it back together.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, it's time to test its connection with 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 can take apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't work, you have a bigger issue. In this instance, you will need to call your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the make of your vehicle. They can diagnose the problem by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines if your key fob is transmitting a signal to your car's computer.
car keys repairs hope that this guide has been helpful to anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. If you have any additional questions or issues, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.