Don't Make This Mistake With Your Key Fob Repair
Remote car key repair company The Keylab of modern cars now have a remote key fob that can lock, unlock and start the car. However, as with any piece of modern technology it is not without its own problems.
Usually these are very simple to resolve. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery inside a key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that should be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functioning. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped working Replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs utilize the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that's easily available at many stores. The majority of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your car'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 your fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step will save you from buying another fob if you make a mistake when making it back together.
Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and allows you to access your car's driver's door in the event that your remote control fails to function. To access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch in the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to be extra vigilant, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter embedded in their casings, but you can also purchase an extra multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. In general the battery should be reading 3.0 Volts or higher. If it reads lower than that, it could indicate the battery is on its last legs and needs to be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem to be nothing more than high-tech items for convenience, but they aren't indestructible. It's not uncommon for these remotes to fail after a while, especially when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there's lots of physical abuse associated with it. In most cases it is easy to identify an issue and fix it with the remote fob. Most of the time, all that is needed is an updated battery.
Many modern-day car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions like locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which can be particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on the key fob can be reset by taking the device apart and ensuring they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically made to be removed however the battery connectors on a key fob can be loose as time passes. Soldering can be used to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been disconnected. This will bring back the fob's functionality.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons could be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to fix on your own. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them using the right equipment and expertise.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in the event that one of the ones you regularly use stops working. This will keep you from being left without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Also, you should check your car insurance policy or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to determine if it covers the cost of replacing or programming the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to become wet. This can happen from the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronic components. It's good to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and thoroughly drying it.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves taking them out and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't functioning or appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to make sure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Remove the case using tweezers and remove the battery. Don't remove the antennas or circuit board. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed it will be required to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's recommended to dry the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future moisture issues and help your key fob last longer.
If the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your specific model and make of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob for your particular vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes look just like your factory fob, however, they are more affordable and can be easily connected with your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of replacements that you can program in minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. It could be due to many factors, including broken battery contacts or buttons. You could be able to fix the problem yourself by performing basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to ensure is that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does it, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's a good idea to pull off the key fob and conduct an inspection of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. After you've finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and rebuild it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you should test the connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to break the two parts of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing down. Once you have inserted the board and reassembled your key fob.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you might have a bigger issue. In this situation, you will need to either call your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the model of the car you own. They can diagnose the problem with a radio frequency test, which is a device that determines if your key fob is sending an indication to the car's computer.
This guide should be helpful for anyone who has issues with their vehicle key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.