Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote keys that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of modern technology, it can sometimes experience problems.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. It's as simple as resetting the device and you should be able to accomplish by following the resetting guidelines in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in a key fob. The battery is a tiny piece of equipment that has to be replaced frequently to maintain the functionality of the fob. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons your fob might not be functioning properly. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped working Replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032, which is easily available in a wide range of stores. The majority of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can find the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Open your key fob carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photograph of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can help you avoid needing to purchase a new fob if you make an error while putting it together.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob, and allows you to open the door to the driver's side of your car in the event that the remote control fails. To open the blade of the key, locate the notch that lies in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to test the battery's voltage with extra care, you can make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can purchase a multimeter in many hardware stores for a few bucks. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading below that level could indicate a battery in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like little more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however, they're not indestructible. These remote devices can stop functioning after a period of time, especially when they are used frequently or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. Most of the time, it's easy to diagnose an issue and fix it by using the remote fob. In most cases all that's required is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs have several buttons that can perform various functions. For example, they can lock and unlock the doors and activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio signal to a receiver inside the vehicle. key repair near me come with a button that will start the engine, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically made to be removed however the battery connectors on a key fob may become loose as time passes. If the contacts on the button are disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job is enough to put them back in place and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
In addition, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons may be broken, out of alignment or misaligned. These types of issues are generally more difficult to fix on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop that has the right tools and expertise.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe location, just in case the one you use is not working as often. This can keep you from being left without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have your vehicle towing back to the dealer. It is also advisable to examine your insurance policy on your car or car club membership extended warranty coverage to determine if it will cover the cost of programming or replacing a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for keys to get submerged, whether from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a range of malfunctions in the electronic. It's good to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to check the buttons are working properly. This usually involves removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
Check the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and take out the battery. Do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that 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've replaced and removed the battery it's recommended to dry the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will prevent future problems with moisture and will make your key fob more robust.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can visit a dealership, or an independent shop that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob for your specific vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes function just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the expense and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally, your key fob will cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons that include malfunctioning batteries or buttons. It is possible to solve the issue yourself by performing basic maintenance.
You should first check whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it can, then you probably have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's a good idea to pull off your key fob and perform an examination of the circuit board. Check for cracked solder joints. After you've finished you can replace the battery on your key fob and rebuild it.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test the connection with your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you could have a bigger issue. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in your car's make. They can identify the issue using a radio-frequency tester, a device which determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the computer in your car.
We hope that this guide was helpful for anyone who is having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.