Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote keys that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, like any piece of modern technology, it can sometimes experience problems.
They are generally easy to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery of a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive part that should be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functioning. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob may not be working. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. Whatever the cause, if your key fob is unresponsive and is not responding, it's time to replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery which is easily found in a variety of stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the specific type of battery you need.
Once you have the right battery then carefully open the key fob and remove its battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do so to ensure you put everything back together in the correct way. This simple step will save you from having to purchase an entirely new fob if you make a mistake when putting it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. This is located within the key fob and permits you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that your remote control fails to function. To access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's in the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to be extra vigilant you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have an integrated voltmeter, however you can get a multimeter in most hardware shops for a few dollars. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or more. 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
Key fobs for cars may appear to be nothing more than modern, high-tech gadgets, but they aren't indestructible. It isn't unusual for these remotes to fail after a time, particularly when 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 an issue and fix it with a remote fob. Usually all that's required is a new battery.
A lot of modern car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When you press a button the fob sends out the radio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which is particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't usually made to be removed however the battery connectors on a key fob may be loose as time passes. Soldering is a method to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been cut off. This will allow the fob to function again.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to fix on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in the event that one that you frequently use fails to function. This will prevent you from being stranded 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 the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for keys to get wet, be it from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause destruction to the electronic components inside, causing many malfunctions. The good news is that the key fob can usually be kept from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons aren't working or don't pop in, it may be the time to replace your remote.
You should also check the case to make sure there's nothing blocking the function of the key fob. Use car key fob repair or pliers to open the case and remove the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob's programed to your vehicle. And if you disturb those circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's recommended to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will avoid future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.
If, after all this, the fob is not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your specific type of vehicle. They can re-program the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully return it to full functionality.
If all else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes are just like the factory fob but much cheaper. They can be easily paired to your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it yourself replacements that you can re-program within a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob might just stop working - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due various reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you may be in a position to fix it yourself by doing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to ensure is that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does, you may have an issue with your primary remote. If car key repair can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
Before replacing the battery it's a good idea to pull off your key fob and perform a visual inspection of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracked solder joints. When you're done you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, it's now time to test its connection with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. You can then pry apart the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work for you, then you may have a larger issue. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a repair shop that is specifically geared to the car's model. They can diagnose the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, an instrument that determines whether your key fob sends signals to the computer in your car.
We hope that this guide was helpful to anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be delighted to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!