Why We Are In Love With Key Fob Repair (And You Should, Too!)
Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature remote keys that can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of modern technology, it can sometimes experience issues.
These are usually very easy to repair. You can reset it by following the steps in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a tiny and affordable part that should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functionality. There are a variety of reasons your key fob may not be working 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.
First, ensure you have the correct size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs use a common three-volt CR2032 battery which is readily available in many stores. The size of many of these batteries is engraved on the outside of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the specific type of battery it takes.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob before you do this to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from purchasing a new fob because you made a mistake when putting it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is situated within the key fob and it lets you open the door to the driver's side of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. To open the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to be extra vigilant you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have built-in voltmeters, but you can get a multimeter from most hardware shops for a few bucks. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or higher. If it reads lower than that, it could mean that the battery is on its last legs and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like high-tech, fancy convenience items however, car key fobs are not indestructible. Remotes can stop functioning after a period of time, particularly if they are used often or have been subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, most of the time it can be easy to determine and fix the issue with the remote key fob and replacing the battery is usually all that is required.
Modern car key fobs come with several buttons that can perform various functions. For instance they can lock and unlock the doors and activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which is especially handy in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of keys can be reset by simply taking the device apart and then checking to ensure they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be taken apart, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob could become loose as time passes. If the contacts on the button have been disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job is enough to get them back into place and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
Additionally, if a fob has been dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons might be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These types of issues are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by a local auto shop with the right equipment and experience.
It's always a good idea to keep an extra key somewhere in the event that one of the ones you regularly use stops working. This can prevent you from being stranded without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. It is also advisable to look over your insurance policy on your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing or programming a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a key fob to get wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a variety of issues with the electronics. The good thing is that a key fob can often be saved from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
First, verify that the buttons still work properly. This usually involves taking them out the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. buttons. If the buttons aren't functioning or appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.
Check the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and take out the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob programmed it will be required to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced your battery, it is a good idea for you to dry the key fob by placing it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent future moisture issues and make the battery last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If all else fails then you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These DIY remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but cheaper. They are 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 within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. This could be due to many reasons, including damaged battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be in a position to fix it yourself by performing basic maintenance.
You should first confirm that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your car. If it does it, then you might have issues with your primary remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, you can try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
It's a great idea take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any broken solder joints that need to be replaced with solder. Once you're done with that, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be able to break the two parts of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Install car key repair company CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing down. Once you have inserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't work, then there is a bigger problem. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a service shop that is specifically geared to the make of your vehicle. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, a device which determines if your key fob transmits signals to the computer in your car.
This guide will be helpful to anyone having problems with their vehicle key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. We'll be delighted to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!