"The Key Fob Repair Awards: The Best, Worst, And Strangest Things We've Ever Seen
Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock and start the car. However, as with any piece of modern technology it is not without its own issues.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. It is as easy as resetting it which you should be able accomplish by following the resetting guidelines in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced on a regular basis to maintain the function of the device. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons your key fob might not be functioning properly. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped working then replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a wide range of stores. The majority of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can determine the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple action can save you from needing to purchase a new fob if you make an error when putting it back together.
It is also important to know that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and it lets you open the door to the driver's side of your vehicle in the event that the remote control is not working. To access the blade of the key, locate the notch that lies in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to check the battery voltage with more care, use the multimeter. Most modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings. However, you can also purchase a multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or higher. A reading that is lower than that could indicate that the battery is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs might appear like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items however, they're not indestructible. It's not uncommon for remote devices to stop working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is being used frequently or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse that is associated with it. Most of the time it's simple to spot the issue and fix it by using a remote fob. Most of the time, all that is needed is an updated battery.
A lot of modern car key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking the doors and activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob sends out the radio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which can be especially useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset by snapping the device apart and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may get loose over time, despite the fact that they are not designed to be removed. If the button contacts are disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job can be enough to put them back in place and restore the fob to its full functionality.
Additionally, if a fob was damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be damaged, 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 with the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you use is not working as often. You can avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere without your keys, or paying a lot to have the car taken to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It can happen due to an in-ground pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronic components inside, causing numerous malfunctions. It's a good idea to know that you can save your key fob from destruction by following a few easy steps and drying it thoroughly.
First, check whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't functioning or pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and remove the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programming to your vehicle, and when you break the circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After key repair service 've removed and replaced the battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and help your key fob last longer.
If the fob is not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your specific type of vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the fob's key to your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If everything else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look like your factory fob, but are much less expensive and can be easily connected with your vehicle following easy instructions. NAPA offers a variety of do-it yourself replacements that you can re-program in minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may not function, even though it's programmed for your car. This could be caused by many factors that include damaged battery contacts or buttons. It is possible to fix the problem yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
You should first check that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your car. If it can't, you may have a problem in your main remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, you can try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
Before replacing the battery, it's a good idea to pull off your key fob and do an examination of the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that must be replaced with solder. After you're finished you can replace the battery in your key fob and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, make sure you test its connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to take apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you can rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't work, you have a bigger issue. In this situation, you will need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the model of your car. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key fob transmits a signal to the car's computer.
Hopefully, this guide has been helpful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any further questions or issues, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!