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.
Usually these are very simple to resolve. You can reset it by following the directions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in a key fob. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the function of the device. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be functioning, aside from the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning, replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery which is easily found in many stores. The size of many of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. You can identify the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the right battery, carefully open the key fob and remove its existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step could save you from having to buy a new fob simply because you made an error while putting it together.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. remote key repair is located within the key fob and permits you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that your remote control doesn't work. To access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's at the center of your fob. The notch is typically an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to be extra cautious you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have built-in voltmeters, but you can buy a multimeter from most hardware shops for a few dollars. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or more. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like high-tech, fancy convenience items however, car key fobs are not impervious to destruction. Remotes can stop working after some time, particularly if they are used often or have been subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, the majority of times it's easy to determine and fix the issue with the remote key fob and changing the battery is often all that's needed.
Modern car key fobs come with multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance, they can unlock and lock the doors, activate the panic button, and even open the trunk. When the button is pressed the fob sends out an audio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which is especially handy on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't usually designed to be taken apart however, the battery connectors on a key fob could get loose over time. If the buttons' contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job is enough to put them back on track and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons could be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These types of problems are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by an auto repair shop in your area with the right tools and expertise.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in case one you use regularly stops working. This will to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to have the vehicle towed back to the dealer. You should also examine your insurance policy for your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to see whether it covers the cost of replacing or programming a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of an in-ground pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can trigger a myriad of malfunctions in the electronic components. The good news is that the key fob can usually be kept from the brink of death by drying out thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be the 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 or pliers to open the case and take out the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob's programed to your vehicle, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.
After you have replaced and removed the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by putting it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will avoid future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.
If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership, or an independent shop, that specializes in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob of your specific vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If key repairs 're not able to find a replacement key fob from 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 can be easily paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the cost and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
The key fob you have may stop working even though it is still programmed for your vehicle. This could be due to a number of factors, including malfunctioning contacts on the battery or buttons. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
You should first confirm whether your backup remote able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it does, you may have issues with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. Check for cracked solder joints. After that you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you should test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to break the two parts of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure 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 doesn't solve the issue, you could have a larger problem. In this situation you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the make of the car you own. 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 an electronic signal to the computer in your car.
This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. We'll be delighted to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!