Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock or start the car. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there are issues.
These are usually very easy to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery in the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. remote car key repairs is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain the functionality of the fob. There are other reasons why your key fob might not be working besides the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped working Replace the battery.
First, ensure you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 which is easily found in a wide range of stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand will help you identify the specific type of battery it takes.
When you have the correct battery take a moment to open the key fob and remove its battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back together correctly. This simple step can help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob if you make an error when putting it together.
It is also important to know that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, also known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in case the remote control doesn't work. To access the blade of the key, locate the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to be extra vigilant, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can get a multimeter in many hardware stores for a few bucks. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or higher. A reading that is lower than this could indicate the battery is on its last legs and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs might appear to be nothing more than modern, high-tech gadgets, but they aren't indestructible. Remotes can stop working after some time, particularly if they are used often or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. Most of the time, it's easy to diagnose a problem and fix one by using the remote fob. In most cases all that's required is an upgrade to the battery.
A lot of modern car keys have several buttons that can be used for various purposes including locking and unlocking doors and activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Certain fobs come with a button to start the car, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob are reset by simply snapping it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may become loose in time, even though they aren't intended to be removed. Soldering is a method to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been cut off. This will allow the fob to function again.
In addition, if the fob was damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be damaged, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These issues are more difficult to fix on your own. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them using the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe place, just in the event that the one you use frequently stops working. You can avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere without your keys, or having to pay a lot to have the vehicle transported to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It can happen due to a swimming pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play havoc with the electronics inside, leading to a host of malfunctions. It's good to know that you can save a key fob from dying by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
First, make sure whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually means removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and remove the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. These batteries have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob programmed to your vehicle. And should you disrupt these 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 removed and replaced your battery, it is a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it into an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and help the battery last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you can go to a dealership, or an independent shop, that specializes in the make and model of your vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If all else fails then you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but cheaper. They can be easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of do-it-yourself replacements that you can program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may stop working even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be caused by a number of factors such as damaged battery contacts or buttons. You could be able to fix the issue yourself by performing a simple 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, you may have an issue with your primary remote. If you still can't do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
It's a great idea disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done with that you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, it's now time to test the connection with your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuitboard. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this does not resolve the issue, you might have a more serious issue. In this case, call your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in the car's model. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be glad to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.