Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have remote keys that can lock, unlock and start the car. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there could be issues.
They are typically very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check key repairs is powered by the battery inside the key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that should be replaced frequently to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. However, in addition to the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob may not be working. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Regardless of the cause the key fob isn't responding it's time to replace its battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a variety of stores. The size of many of these batteries is stamped on the edges of the key fob. You can identify the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the proper battery take a moment to open your key fob and remove its battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do this to ensure you put everything back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from purchasing an entirely new fob if you made a mistake when putting it back together.
It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an additional mechanical key, called an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and it lets you unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control is not working. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch that's at the center of the fob. The notch is typically an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If key repairs looking to be extra cautious, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have a built-in voltmeter, but you can purchase a multimeter from the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. In general the battery should be reading 3.0 volts and higher. A reading that is lower than this could indicate that the battery is on its last legs and needs to be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items, but car key fobs aren't impervious to destruction. They can cease working after some time, especially when they are used frequently or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. Fortunately, most of the times it's easy to determine and fix a problem with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is often all that's required.
The majority of modern car keys have several buttons that can be used for various purposes including locking and unlocking doors and activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob sends out an audio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver in the car. Some fobs have buttons to start the car, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of keys can be reset by taking the device apart and checking to make sure they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't usually designed to be disassembled however, the battery connectors on a key fob can become loose over time. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to put them back in place and return the fob to full functionality.
Additionally, if a fob was dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons could be damaged, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These types of issues are usually more difficult to solve on your own, however, they can be fixed by an auto repair shop in your area with the right tools and expertise.
Keep a spare key fob in an area that is secure in case the one you use most often stops working. This will prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to get the vehicle towing back to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for a key fob to get submerged, whether from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronic components inside, causing numerous malfunctions. It's important to be aware that you can save your key fob from dying by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
First, check whether the buttons are working properly. This usually involves taking them out, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons don't pop back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
Check 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, but 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 re-program the device.
After you've replaced and removed the battery, it's a good idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.
If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership, or an independent shop that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to match your specific 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 DIY remotes are just like the original fob, but are cheaper. They can be easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the expense and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your key fob might cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. It could be due to many factors, including broken contacts on the battery or buttons. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by carrying out basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does, then you probably have problems with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be repaired by re-soldering. Once you're done with that you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, make sure you test its connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and then gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative end facing down. After you've inserted the circuit board, you are able to reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't resolve the issue, you might have a larger issue. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can pinpoint the issue with a radio frequency test that is a device that determines if your key fob is transmitting signals to the car's computer.
I hope this guide has been useful for anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. key fob repairs 'll be delighted to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!