Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there could be issues.
They are generally easy to fix. It is as easy as resetting the device and you should be able to do by following the instructions for resetting in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. The battery is a tiny piece of equipment that has to be replaced frequently to ensure the function of the device. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob isn't working. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. Whatever the reason when your key fob isn't responding and is not responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, ensure that you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a wide range of stores. The size of most of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand will help you identify the specific type of battery you need.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photograph of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from purchasing an entirely new fob if you made an error when putting it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. This is located within the fob's key and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that the remote control isn't working. To open the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to test the battery voltage with extra care, you can use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have an integrated voltmeter, however you can get a multimeter at many hardware stores for a few dollars. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or more. A reading below that level could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items but car key fobs aren't impervious to destruction. Remotes can stop functioning after a period of time, especially when they are frequently used or have been exposed to physical abuse. Fortunately, a majority of the times, it's simple to identify and fix the issue with a remote key fob, and changing the battery is often all that's required.
Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For instance they can be used to lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio signal to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on the key fob can be reset simply by snapping the device in two and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose over time, even though they are not designed to be removed. If the buttons' contacts have been disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job is enough to get them back in place and restore the fob to its full functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These problems are more difficult to fix by yourself. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe place in case the one you use most often stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or paying a lot to have the vehicle transported to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for the key fob to become wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm or even your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause destruction to the electronic components inside, causing many malfunctions. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be saved from death's edge by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
First, check whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves taking them out and cleaning the buttons. 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 ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation 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 vehicle. And if you disturb those circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you've replaced and removed the battery It's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by placing it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob of your specific vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If nothing else works then you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look like your factory fob, but are much more affordable and can be easily connected with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in a matter of minutes.
Check key fob repairs might simply stop working, even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to a number of factors that include broken batteries or buttons. You could be able to fix the problem yourself by performing basic maintenance.
You should first confirm whether your backup remote capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it can, then you may have a problem with your main remote. If you are still unable to do it, you can try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's recommended to take off the key fob and perform an inspection of the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracked solder joints. Once you're done with that, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you should test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board and reassembled your key fob.
If this does not resolve the problem, you may have a larger issue. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a service shop that is specialized in your car's make. They can determine the problem with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer.
This guide will be helpful to anyone having problems with their vehicle key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach us for assistance. We'll be glad to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!