Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of modern technology, it can sometimes experience problems.
Usually these are very simple to resolve. You can reset it by following the instructions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive part that needs to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. However, in addition to the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob may not be working. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped working then replace the battery.
First, ensure that you have the correct size battery. Almost all modern key fobs use a common three-volt CR2032 battery that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact kind of battery that it uses.
Once you have the proper battery then carefully open the key fob, and then remove the existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob prior to you do so to ensure you put everything back together in the correct way. This simple step can save you from having to purchase an entirely new fob if you made a mistake when putting it back together.
It is also important to know that certain key fobs come with a backup mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and allows you to unlock the driver's door of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. In order to access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch at the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to test the battery voltage with more care, make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings. However, you can also get a multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or more. If it reads lower than that, it could mean that the battery is at its end and needs to be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be sophisticated, luxurious convenience items however, car key fobs aren't durable. It isn't unusual for these remotes to cease working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is frequently used or if there's lots of physical abuse involving it. Fortunately, the majority of times, it's simple to identify and fix a problem with a remote key fob, and changing the battery is typically all that's required.
Many modern-day car key fobs have multiple buttons for different functions including locking and unlocking the doors as well as activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When the button is pressed, the fob sends an audio signal using the code that is interpreted by a receiver inside the car. Certain fobs come with an option to start the car, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob are reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may be loose over time, even though they aren't intended to be disassembled. Soldering is a way to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been disconnected. This will restore the fob's functionality.
Additionally, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These types of problems are usually more difficult to repair on your own but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the right equipment and experience.
It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key somewhere in the event that one of the ones you use regularly stops working. This can help to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to have your vehicle towed back to the dealer. 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 common for keys to get submerged, whether from a pool, a rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronic components inside, causing a host of malfunctions. The good news is that the key fob can usually be kept from death's edge 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 removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons aren't functioning or pop in, it may be the time to replace your remote.
You'll also want to check the case to make sure nothing is interfering with the function of the key fob. Remove keys repair using tweezers and remove the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob's programming to your car, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need 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's an ideal idea 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 make the battery last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you can go to a dealership, or an independent shop that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.
If nothing else works If all else fails, you can buy an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes look just like the original key fob, but are much less expensive and can be easily connected with your vehicle following easy instructions. NAPA offers a number of replacements that you can re-program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Occasionally, your key fob will just stop working - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including damaged battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you may be able to fix it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to do is ensure 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 aren't able to, it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
It's a good idea to take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and then inspect the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracked solder joints. After you're finished you can replace your key fob battery and reassemble it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative side facing down. After you have reinserted your board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this doesn't work, then you may have a larger issue. In this case, call your dealer or a service shop that specializes in your car's make. They can identify the issue using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines if your key fob is transmitting signals to the car's computer.
We hope that this guide was helpful for anyone who is experiencing issues with their car's key fob. If you have any other questions or issues, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be delighted to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!