20 Myths About Key Fob Repair: Busted
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with a remote key fob that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there could be issues.
Usually these are very simple to resolve. It can be as simple as resetting the device and you should be able accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in the key fob. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly to maintain the functionality of the fob. However, in addition to the battery, there could be other reasons your key fob may not be working. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped working, replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs are powered by a common three-volt CR2032 battery that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can find the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
The fob must be opened carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photograph of the inside of the fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple step could save you from having to purchase a replacement fob simply because you made an error while making it.
Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. This key blade is located within the key fob and allows you to unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To get to the blade of the key, you must find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is typically a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like 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 built-in voltmeters, but you can get a multimeter in the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts and higher. A reading lower than that could indicate that the battery is on its last legs and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They might look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items but car key fobs are not impervious to destruction. Remotes can stop functioning after a certain period of time, particularly when they are used frequently or if they were subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, the majority of times, it's simple to determine and fix a problem with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is often all that's required.
Many modern-day car keys have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking the doors as well as activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob sends out the radio signal using the code that is interpreted by a receiver located inside the car. Certain fobs come with an option to start the car, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by taking it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of the key fob can be loose in time, even though they are not designed to be removed. If the buttons' contacts are disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job could be enough to put them back in place and return the fob to its full functionality.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons may be damaged or out of alignment, or otherwise misaligned. These problems are more difficult to repair by yourself. However, a local auto shop can fix them using the right equipment and expertise.
It's always a good idea to keep a spare fob somewhere in case one you regularly use stops working. This can keep you from being left without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have your vehicle towed back to the dealer. Make sure to 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 the key fob to become wet, whether from a pool, a rainstorm or even your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction on the electronics inside, leading to many malfunctions. The good thing is that keys can typically be saved from the brink of death by drying it thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
First, make sure whether the buttons function properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons are stuck or don't appear to be able to open, it could be the time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to make sure that nothing is interfering in 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. If you disrupt the circuits that keep your key fob programmed, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After repair key have replaced and removed your battery, it is a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will prevent future problems with moisture and make your key fob more robust.
If, after all this, the fob isn't working properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular model and make of vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.
If you're not able to find a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes look like your factory fob, but are much more affordable and are able to be paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of replacements that you can re-program within a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
The key fob you have may cease to function even though it's programmed for your car. It could be due to a number of factors that include malfunctioning contacts on the battery or buttons. You could be able to solve the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
You should first check that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't then there could be issues with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and then inspect the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done you can replace the battery in your key fob and rebuild it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, car key repair company 'll be in a position to break the two halves of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you can reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't resolve the problem, you may have a bigger problem. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a repair shop that is specifically geared to the make of your vehicle. They can identify the issue by using a radio-frequency tester which is a device that can determine whether your key fob sends signals to the computer in your car.
This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their car key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be delighted to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!