Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. However, like any piece of modern technology it isn't without problems.
They are typically very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the directions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in a key fob. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced frequently in order to maintain the functionality of the key fob. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be functioning properly, besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. Whatever the reason when your key fob is unresponsive, it's time for a replacement battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs are powered by the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit which is readily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is stamped on the outside of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you locate the specific kind of battery that it uses.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do this to ensure you put it back together in the correct way. This simple step can save you from purchasing an entirely new fob because you made a mistake when putting it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. This is found inside the fob's key and allows you to access your car's driver's door in case the remote control doesn't work. To access the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can use a multimeter. Most modern key fobs come with a voltmeter built into their casings, but you can also purchase a multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. In general the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate that the battery is in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem to be nothing more than, high-tech convenience items however, they're not indestructible. Remotes can stop working after some time, especially when they are frequently used or have been subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, most of the time it can be easy to diagnose and fix a problem with a remote key fob, and replacing the battery is typically all that's needed.
Many modern-day car key fobs have several buttons that can be used for various purposes, such as locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is especially useful during cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by taking it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can get loose over time, despite the fact that they are not designed to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job could be enough to put them back into place and return the fob to its full functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to repair by yourself. However broken car key repair can fix them with the right equipment and expertise.
Keep a spare key fob an area that is secure in the event that the one you are using frequently stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying for a large amount to have your vehicle taken to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for keys to get wet, whether from a pool, storm or even your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause havoc with the electronics inside, causing numerous malfunctions. The good part is that a key fob can often be saved from the brink of death by drying it thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
You should also check the case to make sure nothing is interfering with the functioning of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and remove the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob programmed to your car, and when you break the circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have replaced and removed your battery, it is an ideal idea to dry the key fob by placing it into the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and make the battery last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you can go to a dealership, or an independent shop, that is specialized in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob for your particular vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails If all else fails, you can buy an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are similar to the factory fob but much cheaper. They can be easily connected to your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it-yourself replacements that you can re-program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob might just stop working - even though it's programmed 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 doing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to do is make sure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it does 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 great idea disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. After that you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you're now ready to test out its connection with your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to break the two pieces of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative end facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you are able to reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't resolve the issue, you could have a more serious issue. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a repair shop that specializes in the car's model. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits a signal to the car's computer.
This guide will be helpful to anyone having problems with their vehicle key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be glad to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!