Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there can be problems.
These are usually very easy to fix. You can reset it by following the instructions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery of the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. The battery is a tiny piece of equipment that has to be replaced regularly to ensure the function of the device. There are a variety of reasons your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob is not working then replace the battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by the standard CR2032 three-volt battery which is readily available in many stores. The majority of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand will help you identify the exact type of battery you need.
Once you have the right battery take a moment to open the key fob and take out its battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob prior to you do this to make sure you put everything back together the right way. This simple step can help you avoid needing to purchase a new fob simply because you made an error when making it.
It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with a backup mechanical key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch in the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to be extra vigilant, you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also get an extra multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items however, they're not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remotes to cease working after a certain time, especially if the vehicle is frequently used or if there is lots of physical abuse involving it. Most of the time it is easy to identify a problem and fix one with the remote fob. Usually all that's needed is an updated battery.
The majority of modern car keys have several buttons that can be used for various purposes like locking and unlocking the doors and activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it transmits a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which can be especially handy in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset by simply taking the device apart and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can be loose over time, even though they aren't designed to be disassembled. Soldering is a way to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been disconnected. This will bring back the fob's functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons may be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These kinds of issues are typically more difficult to repair on your own however, they can be fixed by a local auto shop with the right tools and expertise.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe place in the event that the one you are using most often stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or having to pay an enormous amount to have the car towed to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to get wet. It can happen due to a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronics. repair car keys to be aware that you can save your key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and thoroughly drying it.
First, check whether the buttons are working properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and remove the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programed 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 it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery it's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If the fob isn't functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your specific type of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If everything else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it yourself remotes are similar to the original fob, but are cheaper. They can be easily connected to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes.
Check the Connections
The key fob you have may cease to function even though it's programmed to work for your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including damaged battery terminal buttons or contacts. You may be able fix the problem yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to do is ensure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it can't, you probably have an issue with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's recommended to take off the key fob and do an inspection of the circuit board. Check for cracks in the solder joints. After that, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test its connection with your vehicle. key repair service can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be able to pry apart the two parts of your key fob, and 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. Once you have inserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't work, you have a bigger issue. In this instance you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the model of your car. They can pinpoint the issue with a radio frequency test, which is a device that determines if your key fob is sending an indication to the computer in your car.
Hopefully, keys repair has been useful for anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.