Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of high-tech equipment, it can sometimes experience problems.
They are typically very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in the key fob. It's a tiny and affordable component that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functioning. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons your fob might not be functioning properly. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. Whatever the cause when your key fob's sensor 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, which is easily available in a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can determine the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
When you have the correct battery, carefully open your key fob and take out its existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob to make sure you put it back together correctly. This simple action can save you from having to purchase a replacement fob if you make an error while making it.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is situated inside the key fob and allows you to unlock the door of the driver's seat of your vehicle in the event that the remote control is not working. To access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch located in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to be extra vigilant you can utilize a multimeter for checking 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 dollars. Generally, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or greater. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items, but keys for cars aren't impervious to destruction. It isn't unusual for these remote devices to stop working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is being used frequently or if there is a lot of physical abuse associated with it. Fortunately, the majority of time it can be easy to determine and fix the issue with the remote key fob and replacing the battery is often all that's needed.
Many modern-day car key fobs have several buttons that can be used for various purposes, such as locking and unlocking doors as well as activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. repair key have a button that can start the engine, which can be particularly useful during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on the key fob can be reset simply by taking the device apart and then checking to ensure they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob could get loose in time, even though they aren't designed to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job is enough to get them back in place and restore the fob to full function.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to repair on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them using the right equipment and expertise.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in the event that one of the ones that you frequently use fails to function. You'll avoid being stuck in the middle of nowhere without your keys, or having to pay an enormous amount to have the car towed to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of the pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The moisture that results can trigger a myriad of malfunctions within the electronic components. It's good to know that you can save a key fob from destruction by following a couple of simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
First, verify whether the buttons function properly. This usually means removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open 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 programming to your vehicle, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you've removed and replaced your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by placing it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will help prevent future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.
If the fob does not work, you can visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is specialized in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If everything else fails, the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look as the factory key fob however, they are more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the high cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob may cease to function - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be due a variety of reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. You could be able to solve the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
The first thing you have to do is ensure that your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't, you may have an issue with your primary remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, you can try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's an excellent idea to take off the key fob and conduct a visual examination of the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that require to be repaired by re-soldering. After you're finished, you can replace the battery on your key fob and put it back together.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test its connection with your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to pry apart the two parts of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you've inserted 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 larger problem. In this case, call your dealer or a service shop that is specifically geared to your car's make. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, an instrument that determines if your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.
We hope that this guide was helpful to anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be delighted to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!