Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of modern technology it is not without its own issues.
Usually, they are easy to resolve. You can reset it by following the steps in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in the key fob. The battery is a small piece of equipment that has to be replaced frequently to maintain the functionality of the fob. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be working besides the battery. These issues could include physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Whatever the cause, if your key fob's sensor is not responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, ensure that you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs use the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that's easily available at many stores. The size of most of these batteries is stamped on the outside of the key fob. You can determine the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back together correctly. This simple action can save you from having to purchase a replacement fob because you made an error while putting it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. This is located within the fob's key and allows you to open the driver's side door in the event that your remote control fails to function. To open the blade of the key, you must locate the notch that lies in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to be extra cautious, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have an voltmeter in 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 higher. If it reads lower than that, it could mean that the battery is in its last days and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items however, car key fobs are not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remotes to fail after a time, particularly when the vehicle is frequented or there is lots of physical abuse involving it. In most cases it is easy to identify an issue and fix it with a remote fob. Usually all that's required is a new battery.
Many modern-day car key fobs have numerous buttons for various 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 transmits a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Certain fobs come with a button to start the car, which is particularly useful on cold winter mornings as well as 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. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may be loose over time, even though they are not designed to be removed. If the button contacts are disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job can be enough to get them back into place and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons may be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These types of issues are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by a local auto shop that has the proper tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe place in the event that the one you are using is not working as often. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or paying a lot to have the car transported to the dealer. Also, you should look over your insurance policy for your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to see whether it covers the cost of replacing or programming an entirely new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for the key fob to become submerged, whether from a pool, rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction on the electronics inside, leading to many malfunctions. The good thing is that keys can typically be kept from death's edge by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are functioning properly. This usually means removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.
You should also check the case to ensure nothing is interfering with the functioning of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and remove the battery. Don't remove the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob's programed to your vehicle, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you've removed and replaced your battery, it is recommended to dry the key fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will help prevent future moisture issues and help your key fob last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If nothing else works then 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 fob but much cheaper. They can be easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it-yourself replacements that you can program in minutes.
Check the Connections
The key fob you have may stop working even though it's programmed for your vehicle. This could be due to many reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. It is possible to solve the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing to do is ensure that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it does then there could be issues with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
It's a great idea to disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that need to be re-soldering. Once you're done you can replace the battery in your key fob and rebuild it.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled the key fob, it's now time to test out its connection with your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then break your key fob's two halves and then gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you can rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't work, then you have a bigger issue. In this situation, you will need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the specific model of your vehicle. They can identify the issue by using a radio frequency tester, which is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits an indication to your car's computer.
car key fob repair near me hope that this guide has been helpful for anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be delighted to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!