Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of high-tech equipment it is not without its own problems.
Usually these are very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in the key fob. It's a small and inexpensive component that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob isn't working. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. Whatever the reason when your key fob is unresponsive, it's time to replace its battery.
First, make sure you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a common three-volt CR2032 battery that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. Most of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you locate the specific type of battery it takes.
Once you have the proper battery, carefully open the key fob and remove its battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob before you do this to make sure that you put it back together in the correct way. This simple step will save you from buying a new fob if you made a mistake when putting it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. car key fob repairs is inside the key fob, and it allows you to open the door to the driver's side of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To access the key blade, you have to locate the notch that's at the center of the fob. The notch is typically covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to be extra vigilant you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with 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 higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear like nothing more than fancy, high-tech convenience items however they're not impervious to damage. It's not uncommon for remote devices to stop working after a certain time, especially if the vehicle is frequented or there's a lot of physical abuse associated with it. Most of the time it is easy to identify a problem and fix one with the remote fob. In most cases, all that is needed is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs have multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance they can lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button, and open the trunk. When you press a button, the fob sends the radio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of the key fob can be reset by simply snapping the device apart and checking to make sure they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be disassembled however the battery connectors on a key fob may be loose as time passes. If the button contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job could be enough to put them back in place and return the fob to its full functionality.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or out of alignment, or misaligned. These issues are more difficult to repair by yourself. However, a local auto shop can fix them using the right tools and experience.
It's always recommended to keep an extra key somewhere in case one of the ones you use regularly stops working. This will prevent you from being stranded without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have your vehicle towed back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It can happen due to an in-ground pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a range of malfunctions within the electronic. The good part is that keys can typically be kept from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.
First, make sure whether the buttons function properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons don't click back in or are stuck, it's 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. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob 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 an ideal idea to dry the key fob by placing it into the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will help prevent future moisture issues and help your key fob last longer.
If, after all this, the fob is not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your particular type of vehicle. They can re-program the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully return it to its 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 are just like the original fob, but are more affordable. They are easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of replacements that you can program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might cease to function even though it's programmed for your car. This could be caused by a number of factors such as broken contacts on the battery or buttons. You may be able fix the problem yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
You should first confirm that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it does, then you might have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's an excellent idea to take off your key fob and conduct a visual examination of the circuit board. key repair near me 'll want to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that must be replaced with solder. Once you're done, you can replace the battery on your key fob and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you should test its connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing down. After you have reinserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't work for you, then you have a bigger issue. In this case, you will have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized 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 signals to the car's computer.
We hope that this guide was helpful for anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.