Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. However, like any piece of modern technology it is not without its own problems.
They are typically very simple to fix. car key fob repairs can be as simple as resetting it which you should be able do by following the resetting instructions in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery of the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be functioning, aside from the battery. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob is not working then replace the battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. The size of many of these batteries is stamped on the edges of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you locate the exact type of battery it takes.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the current battery. Take a picture of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can save you from having to purchase a replacement fob simply because you made an error while making it.
Some key fobs also have an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob, and it lets you open the door to the driver's side of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch that's at the center of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you're looking to test the battery voltage with more care, make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can buy a multimeter at the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. Generally speaking, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or greater. A reading lower than that could indicate that the battery is at its end and needs to be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They might look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items but keys for cars aren't impervious to destruction. It's not uncommon for these remotes to fail after a time, particularly when the vehicle is frequently used or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse that is associated with it. Fortunately, most of the times it's easy to identify and fix a problem with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is typically all that is required.
Modern car key fobs have multiple buttons that perform different functions. For example they can be used to lock and unlock the doors and activate the panic button and even 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 particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping it off and ensuring that they are not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may be loose in time, even though they are not intended to be disassembled. If the button contacts have been disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job is enough to get them back in place and return the fob to full function.
Additionally, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be damaged or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These kinds of issues are usually more difficult to repair on your own but they can be resolved by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob a safe place in case the one you use frequently stops working. This will to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to get the vehicle towing back to the dealer. It is also advisable to examine your car insurance policy or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to determine if it covers the cost of programming or replacing a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for the key fob to become wet, whether from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a variety of issues with the electronics. The good news is that a key fob can often be saved from death's edge by drying out thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are still functioning correctly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace your remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to ensure there's nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and take out the battery. Don't remove the antennas or circuit board. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob programmed it will be required to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you have replaced and removed your battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will prevent any future issues with moisture and make your key fob more robust.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They can re-program the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully return it to its full functionality.
If everything else fails, an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes function just like the original fob, but are more affordable. They can be easily paired to your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the 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 may just stop working - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to many reasons, including damaged battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you may be capable of fixing it yourself by carrying out basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to ensure is that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it does, you may have a problem in your main remote. If you still can't do it, try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
Before you replace the battery it's recommended to take off the key fob and do a visual inspection of the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that must be replaced with solder. When you're done you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart the two halves of your key fob and remove the circuitboard gently. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board and reassembled your key fob.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you might have a bigger issue. In this case, call your dealer or a service shop that is specialized in your car's make. They can identify the issue using a radio frequency tester that is a device that determines whether or not your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.
This guide will be helpful to anyone having problems with their car key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!