Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature remote keys that can be used to lock, unlock and start the car. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there are issues.
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 remote control is powered by the battery inside the key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functioning. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob isn't working. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Whatever the cause when your key fob is unresponsive, it's time to replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Almost all modern key fobs utilize the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that is easily accessible at a variety 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 find the exact type of battery it takes.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from buying an entirely new fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and permits you to open the driver's side door in the event that the remote control fails to function. In order to access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch in the center of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to be extra vigilant, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with an integrated voltmeter, however you can get a multimeter in most hardware shops for a few bucks. In general, the battery should read 3.0 volts and higher. A reading that is lower than this could indicate the battery is at its end and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be modern, high-tech items of convenience but car key fobs are not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remotes to fail after a while, especially if the vehicle is used frequently or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse involving it. Fortunately, the majority of time it can be easy to identify and fix the issue with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is often all that's required.
Modern car key fobs have numerous buttons that serve different functions. For instance, they can lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When a button is pressed, the fob sends the radio signal using the code that is interpreted by a receiver located inside the car. Certain fobs come with a button to start the car, which is useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of the key fob can be reset by taking the device apart and then checking to ensure they aren't broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be taken apart however the battery connectors on a key fob may be loose as time passes. If the button contacts are disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job could be enough to get them back on track and restore the fob to its full functionality.
In addition, if a fob was dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons might be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned. These kinds of issues are typically more difficult to repair on your own but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the right tools and expertise.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe place, just in the event that the one you are using is not working as often. This can to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have your vehicle towing back to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play havoc with the electronic components inside, causing a host of malfunctions. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be saved from the brink of death by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are still functioning correctly. This usually means removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't functioning or appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to make sure there's nothing blocking the functioning of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery, but do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it into the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will prevent future moisture issues and make the battery last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails then you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes look just as the factory key fob but are much less expensive and can be easily connected with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it yourself replacements that can be programmed in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
The key fob you have may cease to function even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be due various reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. You could be able to fix the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
vehicle key repairs need to do is ensure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't it, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, you can try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
Before replacing the battery it's a good idea to pull off the key fob and do an examination of the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be repaired by re-soldering. After you're finished you can replace your key fob battery and put it back together.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's now time to test out its connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's inserted with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this does not resolve the issue, you might have a larger issue. In this case, call your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, an instrument that determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone having problems with their vehicle key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.