Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there can be issues.
These are usually very easy to repair. You can reset it by following the steps in your owner’s manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in a key fob. It's a small and inexpensive part that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functioning. However, in addition to the battery, there could be other reasons your fob may not be working. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. Whatever the reason, if your key fob isn't responding and is not responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, ensure you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a wide range of stores. The size of most of these batteries is printed 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 you need.
Take your key fob apart carefully and take out the original battery. key repairs of the fob prior to you do this to make sure you put everything back together correctly. This simple step could help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob because you made an error when making it.
It is also important to know that some key fobs have a backup mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This key blade is located inside the key fob and allows you to open the door to the driver's side of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. In order 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'd like to test the battery's voltage with extra caution, you can use a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have a built-in voltmeter, but you can purchase a multimeter in many hardware stores for a few bucks. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or greater. A reading below that level could indicate that the battery is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem to be nothing more than, high-tech convenience items, but they aren't indestructible. These remote devices can stop functioning after a certain period of time, especially when they are frequently used or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. Fortunately, the majority of times, it's simple to identify and fix a problem with remote key fobs, and changing the battery is often all that's needed.
A lot of modern car key fobs have multiple buttons for different functions, such as locking and unlocking the doors as well as activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed, the fob sends the radio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which is especially handy on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping the device in two and ensuring they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be taken apart however the battery connectors on a key fob can get loose as time passes. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they have been disconnected. This will restore the fob's functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons could be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These types of problems are typically more difficult to solve on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe place in case the one you use is not working as often. This can help prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for keys to get submerged, whether from a pool, rainstorm or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can trigger a myriad of issues with the electronic components. It's important to be aware that you can save a key fob from destruction by following a few easy steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are working correctly. This usually means removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
You should also check the case to ensure nothing is interfering with the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's 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 recommended to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future problems with moisture and will make your key fob more durable.
Finally, if the fob isn't functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular make and model of vehicle. They can re-program the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully return the function to its original state.
If you're not able to find the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes look as the factory key fob but are much less expensive and are able to be paired with your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you're looking 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 a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might cease to function even though it's programmed for your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be in a position to fix it yourself by doing 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, then you may have problems with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote.
It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. After you're finished, you can replace your key fob battery and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, make sure you test the connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to break the two pieces of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's placed with the negative side facing down. After you've inserted the circuit board, you are able to rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't work, then there is a bigger problem. In this case you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the specific model of your car. They can diagnose the issue using a radio-frequency tester, which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key fob transmits a signal to the computer in your car.
Hopefully, this guide was helpful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.