Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock or start the car. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there are issues.
Usually, they are easy to fix. It is as easy as resetting it, which you should be able do by following the resetting instructions in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the functionality of the fob. There are other reasons why your key fob may not be working besides the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Whatever the cause the key fob isn't responding, it's time to replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032, which is easily available in a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact type of battery you need.
The fob must be opened carefully and take out the original 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 having to purchase an entirely new fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. The key blade is situated inside the key fob, and it allows you to open the door to the driver's side of your vehicle in the event that the remote control is not working. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch at the center of your fob. The notch is usually covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to test the battery's voltage with more care, make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have an integrated voltmeter, however you can purchase a multimeter from most hardware shops for a few dollars. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading below that level could indicate a battery in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like little more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however, they're not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remotes to cease working after a while, especially if the vehicle is used frequently or if there's an excessive amount of physical abuse that is associated with it. In most cases, it's easy to diagnose a problem and fix one with a remote fob. In most cases, all that is needed is an updated battery.
The majority of modern car keys have numerous buttons for various functions like locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When you press a button the fob transmits the radio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver in the car. Certain fobs come with buttons to start the car, which is especially useful during cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob could get loose over time, despite the fact that they aren't designed to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job can be enough to get them back in place and allow the fob back to full function.
Additionally, if a fob has been dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons may be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to fix on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you are using frequently stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without your keys, or having to pay a lot to have the vehicle towed to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a key fob to get wet, whether from a pool, storm or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of issues with the electronic. It's good to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to check the buttons are working properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace your remote.
You should also check the case to ensure there's nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers, and then remove the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. They have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programed to your car, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll need go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.
After you have removed and replaced the battery, it's recommended to dry the key fob out by placing it in the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will avoid future problems with moisture and will make your key fob more durable.
If, after all this, the fob isn't functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your particular make and model of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails, an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes function just like the original fob, but are more affordable. They can be easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may not function, even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be due a variety of reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. You could be able to solve the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't, you might have problems with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's an excellent idea to take apart your key fob and conduct an examination of the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any broken solder joints that require to be repaired by re-soldering. When you're done you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, make sure you test the connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. Then, you can break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this doesn't work, then you have a bigger issue. In this situation, you will need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the specific model of your car. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines if your key fob transmits a signal to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone having problems with their car key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.