Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock or start the car. However, like any piece of high-tech equipment it is not without its own problems.
They are generally easy to repair. You can reset it by following the instructions in your owner’s manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in a key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functionality. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob might not be functioning properly. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. Whatever the cause, if your key fob's sensor is not responding it's time to replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs use the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. Most of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the fob's edges. You can determine the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the right battery, carefully open your key fob and remove its battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob before you do so to ensure you put it back together in the correct way. This simple trick will prevent you from purchasing an entirely new fob if you made an error when making it back together.
It is important to be aware that some key fobs have an additional mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. This is found inside the fob's key and allows you to open the driver's side door in the event that your remote control doesn't work. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch that's at the center of the fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you're looking to be extra cautious you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have an voltmeter embedded in their casings. However, you can also get a multimeter for a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading lower than that could indicate that the battery is in its last days and needs to be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like nothing more than fancy, high-tech convenience items however, they're not indestructible. They can cease functioning after a certain period of time, particularly if they are used often or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, car key remote repair of the times it's easy to diagnose and fix a problem with the remote key fob and replacing the battery is typically all that is required.
Modern car key fobs have numerous buttons that serve different functions. For instance, they can be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button, and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which is particularly useful during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by simply snapping it apart and checking that they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of the key fob can become loose over time, despite the fact that they aren't designed to be disassembled. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been disconnected. This will restore the fob's functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These problems are more difficult to repair by yourself. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
It's always a good idea to keep a spare fob somewhere in the event that 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 towed back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It can happen due to a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a range of issues with the electronic components. The good news is that keys can typically be saved from death's edge by drying it thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
First, make sure that the buttons still work correctly. This usually involves removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to make sure 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. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob programmed, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's a good idea to dry the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will avoid future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is specialized in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your particular vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look like the original key fob, but are much less expensive and can be easily paired with your vehicle following easy 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 minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your key fob might cease to function - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to various reasons, including malfunctioning batteries or buttons. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to ensure is that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does, you may have an issue with your primary remote. If you can't, then it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote.
It's a great idea disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that require to be re-soldering. After you've finished you can replace your key fob battery and put it back together.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board and reassembled your key fob.
If this doesn't work, then there is a bigger problem. In this situation you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the specific model of your car. They can pinpoint the issue using a radio frequency tester, which is a device that determines if your key fob is sending signals to your car's computer.
This guide will be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.