Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there could be issues.
Usually, they are easy to resolve. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in a key fob. The battery is a tiny piece of equipment that has to be replaced frequently to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are many other reasons your key fob might not be working besides the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If remote key fob repair has stopped functioning, replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery, which is easily available in many stores. The size of many of these batteries is stamped on the edges of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand will help you identify the specific type of battery it takes.
Once you have the proper battery, carefully open your key fob and take out its 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 will save you from purchasing a new fob if you made an error when making it back together.
You should also be aware that certain key fobs come with an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This is located within the key fob and permits you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that your remote control doesn't work. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch in the center of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you're looking to test the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have an integrated voltmeter, however you can purchase a multimeter at the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. Generally speaking, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or higher. 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
They may look like high-tech, fancy convenience items, but keys for cars aren't impervious to destruction. It isn't unusual for these remotes to cease working after a time, particularly if the vehicle is frequently used or if there is lots of physical abuse involving it. Fortunately, a majority of the times, it's simple to determine and fix the issue with the remote key fob and changing the battery is usually all that's needed.
A lot of modern car keys have several buttons that can be used for various purposes including locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob sends out the radio signal using the code that is interpreted by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs have a button to start the car, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on keys can be reset simply by snapping the device in two and checking to make sure they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can be loose in time, even though they are not designed to be disassembled. Soldering is a way to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they have been disconnected. This will bring back the fob's functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to fix on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
automotive key repair 's always an excellent idea to have an extra fob in case one that you frequently use fails to function. This can help prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to get the vehicle towing back to the dealer. It is also advisable to look over your insurance policy for your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to see if it will cover the cost of replacing or programming an entirely new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for keys to get wet, be it from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause havoc with the electronics inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's a good idea to be aware that you can save your key fob from dying by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to check the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons aren't working or don't come in, it might be the time to replace your remote.
Check the case to ensure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove 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's programming to your vehicle. And should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have replaced and removed your battery, it is an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by placing it into an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent future problems with moisture and will make your key fob more robust.
If the fob is not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular type of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to match your particular vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If you're not able to find 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 more affordable and are able to be paired with your vehicle following easy instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might stop working even though it's programmed for your car. This could be due to a number of factors, including damaged battery contacts or buttons. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing 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 a problem in your main remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
Before replacing the battery It's an excellent idea to take apart your key fob and do an examination of the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be replaced with solder. After you've finished, you can replace the battery on your key fob and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be able to break 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 down. After you've inserted the circuit board, you can reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this does not resolve the issue, you could have a more serious issue. In this situation, you will have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine whether your key fob sends a signal to the car's computer.
I hope this guide has been helpful to anyone having issues 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.