Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there are problems.
These are usually very easy to repair. You can reset it by following the instructions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in the key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that needs to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure the fob's functionality. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be functioning properly, besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. Whatever the cause the key fob isn't responding it's time to replace its battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 which is easily found in a wide range of stores. The majority of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob's edges. You can determine the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob before you do so to ensure you put everything back together in the correct way. This simple step could help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob if you make an error while making it.
Some key fobs have an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and allows you to access your car's driver's door in case the remote control fails to function. To get to the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want 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 the majority of hardware stores for a few bucks. In general the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading that is lower than this could mean that the battery is in its last days and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs might appear like little more than fancy modern, high-tech gadgets however, they're not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remote devices to stop working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is used frequently or if there is a lot of physical abuse that is associated with it. Fortunately, a majority of the time it can be easy to identify and fix a problem with the remote key fob and replacing the battery is usually all that's needed.
Modern car key fobs come with numerous buttons that serve different functions. For example they can unlock and lock the doors and activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio signal to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which is especially handy during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it apart and checking that they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose in time, even though they are not designed to be removed. Soldering is More Signup bonuses to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been disconnected. This will allow the fob to function again.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or out of alignment, or otherwise misaligned. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by an auto repair shop in your area with the right equipment and experience.
It's always a good idea to keep an extra key somewhere in the event that one you regularly use stops working. This will prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to get the vehicle towing back to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to become wet. This can happen from the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak havoc with the electronics inside, causing numerous malfunctions. It's good to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a few easy steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to check the buttons are working properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and rebuilding them. If the buttons aren't working or don't pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.
You should also check the case to make sure nothing is interfering with the functioning of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and take out the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programming, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery It's a good idea to dry the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If the fob does not work, you can go to a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the fob's key to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but more affordable. They can be easily connected to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of do-it yourself replacements that you can program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
The key fob you have may cease to function even though it is still programmed for your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be capable of fixing it yourself by doing some basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it can, then you might have problems with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery, it's an excellent idea to take off your key fob and conduct an inspection of the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be re-soldering. After you're finished replacing the battery in your key fob and rebuild it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, make sure you test its connection to your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work for you, then you have a bigger issue. In this case, you will need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the model of your car. They can determine the problem with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!