remote key fob repair Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there are issues.
They are generally easy to fix. It’s as simple as resetting the device and you should be able to do by following the resetting 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 small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the function of the device. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be functioning, aside from the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob has stopped functioning then replace the battery.
First, ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery that is readily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob’s edges. You can determine the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
The fob must be opened carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step will save you from buying an entirely new fob if you made a mistake when making it back together.
You should also be aware that some key fobs have an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This key blade is located inside the key fob, and it allows you to unlock the door of the driver’s seat of your car in the event that the remote control fails. To access the key blade, you’ll need to locate the notch that’s in the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circle that’s hidden by the fob’s plastic casing.
If you’re looking to test the battery’s voltage with more care, use the multimeter. Most modern key fobs come with a voltmeter built into their casings, however you can also get a multimeter for just a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading that is lower than this could indicate that the battery is on its last legs 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 impervious to damage. Remotes can stop functioning after a period of time, especially when they are used frequently or have been exposed to physical abuse. Most of the time it’s simple to spot a problem and fix one by using a remote fob. Usually all that’s needed is a new battery.
A lot of modern car keys have multiple buttons for different functions, such as locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio signal to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs have an option to start the car, which is particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on the key fob can be reset simply by taking the device apart and ensuring they’re not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may get loose in time, even though they aren’t intended to be removed. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they’ve been disconnected. This will bring back the fob’s functionality.
In addition, if a fob has been dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons could be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to solve on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the right tools and expertise.
It’s always recommended to keep an extra fob in the event that one you regularly use stops working. This can help to avoid being stuck without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It’s not common for the key fob to become submerged, whether from a pool, a rainstorm or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can trigger a myriad of malfunctions in the electronics. The good news is that the key fob can usually be kept from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are still functioning properly. This usually means removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons don’t pop back in or are stuck, it’s time to replace the remote.
You should also check the case to ensure there’s nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and take out the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. If you disrupt the circuits that keep your key fob’s programmed, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you’ve removed and replaced the battery, it’s a good idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag with silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future issues with moisture and make your key fob repairs near me fob more robust.
If the fob doesn’t work, you can go to a dealership, or an independent shop, that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.
If you’re not able to find an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes look as the factory key fob however, they are more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle following easy instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your Key fob repair fob may simply stop working, even though it’s still connected to your vehicle. This could be due many reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance.
The first thing to ensure is that your backup remote key repair is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can’t it, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
It’s a good idea to disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. Once you’re done with that, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you’ve replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you’re now ready to test out its connection with your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you can take apart the two parts of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it’s placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you’ve reinserted the circuit board, you can put it back together and try again.
If this doesn’t resolve the problem, you may have a bigger issue. In this case you’ll have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the make of your car. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines whether your key fob sends an electronic signal to the car’s computer.
I hope this guide has been helpful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle’s key fob. 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!