Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock and start the car. However, like any piece of modern technology it is not without its own problems.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to resolve. You can reset it by following the directions in your owner’s manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery inside a key fob. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced frequently to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are other reasons why your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the cause. If your key fob is not functioning Replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs use a common three-volt CR2032 battery which is readily available in many stores. electronic car key repair near me of the majority of these batteries is engraved on the outside of the key fob. You can find the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the right battery, carefully open the key fob and take out its existing battery. Take electronic car key repair near me of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple step can help you avoid needing to purchase a new fob if you make an error while making it.
You should also be aware that some key fobs have an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. It's located inside the fob's key and allows you to access your car's driver's door in case the remote control doesn't work. To access the key blade, you have to locate the notch that's in the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to be extra cautious, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also get an extra multimeter for a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. In general the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like little more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however they're not impervious to damage. Remotes can stop functioning after a period of time, particularly if they are used often or were subjected to physical abuse. Most of the time it is easy to identify an issue and fix it by using a remote fob. Usually, all that is needed is an upgrade to the battery.
Modern car key fobs come with multiple buttons that perform 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 signal to a receiver within the vehicle. Certain fobs come with an option to start the car, which is useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob are reset by simply taking it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob could be loose over time, even though they aren't intended to be removed. If the buttons' contacts have been disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job can be enough to get them back into place and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to solve on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the right tools and expertise.
It's always a good idea to keep an extra fob in case one that you frequently use fails to function. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying a lot to have the car towed to the dealer. Also, you should check your insurance policy for your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to determine whether it covers the cost of replacing or programming a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for keys to get wet, whether from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of malfunctions in the electronics. The good part is that keys can typically be kept from a cliff by drying it thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't come in, it might be time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to ensure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery but do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob programmed to your vehicle. And if you disturb those circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery It's a good idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can visit a dealership, or an independent shop, that specializes in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob for your particular vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If nothing else works, you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look as the factory key fob however, they are 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 within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally, your key fob will cease to function - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by performing basic maintenance.
You should first check whether your backup remote capable of locking and unlocking 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 the backup remote.
Before replacing the battery, it's an excellent idea to take apart your key fob and do a visual examination of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracked solder joints. After you're finished replacing the battery on your key fob and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you should test its connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to take apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, you are able to rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this does not resolve the problem, you may have a bigger issue. In this situation you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the model of your car. They can diagnose the problem with a radio frequency test, which is a device that determines if your key fob is sending a signal to your car's computer.
We hope that this guide has been helpful for anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.