Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of high-tech equipment it isn't without issues.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. You can reset it by following the instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in a key fob. It's a small, inexpensive component that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functioning. There are many other reasons your key fob might not be functioning properly, besides the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob is not functioning, replace the battery.
First, ensure you have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs utilize the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are marked 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 locate the specific type of battery you need.
Once you have the right battery then carefully open your key fob and take out its battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step will save you from buying another fob if you make an error when making it back together.
It is also important to know that some key fobs include a backup 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 fails to function. To access the blade of the key, you must locate the notch that lies in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to test the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can use a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have built-in voltmeters, but you can buy a multimeter from the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They might look like high-tech, fancy convenience items, but car key fobs are not impervious to destruction. These remote devices can stop functioning after a certain period of time, particularly if they are used often or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. Most of the time it's simple to spot an issue and fix it by using the remote fob. Usually all that's required is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs come with numerous buttons that serve different functions. For example they can lock and unlock the doors and 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. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which can be especially useful on cold winter mornings or 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. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can get loose over time, even though they aren't designed to be removed. Soldering is a method to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been disconnected. remote car key repair near me will restore the fob's functionality.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons might be broken, out of alignment or misaligned. These issues are more difficult to fix by yourself. However, a local auto shop can fix them using the right tools and experience.
Keep an extra key fob in an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you use is not working as often. This can 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 the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for a key fob to get wet, be it from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can trigger a myriad of malfunctions within the electronic components. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be saved from a cliff by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are still functioning properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If remote car key repair don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to make sure there's nothing blocking the function of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers, and then remove the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These have electric current running through them, which keeps the key fob programmed to your vehicle. And when you break the circuits, you'll have to go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you've replaced and removed the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by placing it in a plastic bag with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.
If the fob is still not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in your specific type of vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the fob's key to your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If everything else fails, the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes look just like the original key fob, but are much more affordable and are able to be paired with your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might not function, even though it's programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be due to various reasons, including damaged battery terminal contacts or buttons. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing basic maintenance.
The first thing to ensure is that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does then there could be issues with your primary remote. If key repair car are still unable to do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery it's recommended to take off the key fob and perform a visual 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 your key fob battery and reassemble it.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's now time to test the connection with your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and remove the circuitboard gently. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, you are able to put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work, there is a bigger problem. In this case you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the make of your vehicle. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the computer in your car.
I hope this guide has been helpful to anyone having trouble 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.