Watch Out: How Key Fob Repair Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there could be issues.
These are usually very easy to fix. It is as easy as resetting the device and you should be able accomplish by following the resetting instructions in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery of a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly to maintain the function of the device. There are other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning properly, besides the battery. These issues could include physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning Replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. The size of many of these batteries is printed on the outside of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you locate the exact type of battery you need.
Take your key fob apart carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can help you avoid having to buy a new fob simply because you made an error when putting it together.
It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an additional mechanical key, called an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and permits you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that the remote control fails to function. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch located in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you'd like to test the battery's voltage with more care, use a multimeter. Most modern key fobs have an voltmeter in their casings, however you can also purchase an extra multimeter for a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items but keys for cars aren't durable. It isn't unusual for these remotes to fail after a time, particularly when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse associated with it. In most cases it is easy to identify an issue and fix it by using a remote fob. Most of the time all that's required is a new battery.
Many modern-day car key fobs have multiple buttons for different functions, such as locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When you press a button, the fob sends a radio signal with a code that is recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which can be especially useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping it off and ensuring that they are not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically made to be removed, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob could become loose over time. If the button contacts are disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job can be enough to get them back on track and restore the fob to full functionality.
In addition, if the fob was damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be damaged or displaced from their alignment or misaligned. These problems are more difficult to fix by yourself. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them with the right equipment and expertise.
It's always a good idea to keep an extra key somewhere in the event that one you use regularly stops working. You can avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay a lot to have the vehicle taken to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to become wet. It can happen due to an in-ground pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronic. It's a good idea to be aware that you can save your key fob from destruction by following a few easy steps and thoroughly drying it.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are still functioning correctly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't pop back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to ensure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery, but do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After key repair car 've replaced and removed the battery It's an ideal idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If, after all this, the fob is still not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your specific make and model of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob of your vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These DIY remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but more affordable. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it-yourself replacements that you can program in minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might not function, even though it is still programmed for your vehicle. This could be caused by a number of factors such as malfunctioning battery contacts or buttons. It is possible to solve the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
The first thing you have to ensure is that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it can't, you might have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. When you're done, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, it's now time to test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and gently remove the circuitboard. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative side facing down. After you've inserted the circuit board, you can put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you could have a more serious issue. In this situation, you will need to call your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the specific model of the car you own. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine whether your key fob sends signals to the computer in your car.
Hopefully, this guide has been helpful for anyone who is experiencing issues with their car's key fob. If you have any other questions or issues, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!