Why No One Cares About Key Fob Repair
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with the remote key fob which can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, like any piece of high-tech equipment, it can sometimes experience problems.
These are usually very easy to fix. You can reset it by following the directions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery inside the key fob. It's a small and inexpensive component that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functioning. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be working besides the battery. These issues could include physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning, replace the battery.
First, ensure that you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. Most of these batteries are stamped 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.
When you have the correct battery then carefully open your key fob, and then remove the battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob prior to you do so to ensure you put it back together the right way. This simple step can save you from having to buy a new fob because you made an error while making it.
It is also important to know that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, called an emergency blade. The key blade is situated within the key fob and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your car in the event that the remote control fails. To open the blade of the key, you must locate the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery's voltage with more care, use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can purchase a multimeter in the majority of hardware stores for a few bucks. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or higher. A reading lower than that could indicate that the battery is in its last days and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items however, car key fobs aren't impervious to destruction. It's not uncommon for these remotes to cease working after a while, especially when the vehicle is being used frequently or if there is lots of physical abuse involving it. In most cases it is easy to identify the issue and fix it with a remote fob. Most of the time all that's required is an updated battery.
The majority of modern car key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When you press a button the fob sends out the radio signal using the code that is interpreted by a receiver in the car. Some fobs have an option to start the car, which is especially useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't made to be removed however, the battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose as time passes. If the buttons' contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to get them back into place and allow the fob back to its full functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to repair on your own but they can be resolved by a local auto shop with the right tools and expertise.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe location in case the one you use is not working as often. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your car transported to the dealer. It is also advisable to check your insurance policy for your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine if it will cover the cost of programming or replacing the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It can happen due to the pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. remote car key repair can cause destruction to the electronics inside, leading to many malfunctions. The good news is that keys can typically be saved from the brink of death by drying it thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to check the buttons are working properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to ensure there is nothing that could be affecting the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and take out the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you damage 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's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by placing it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.
If, after all this, the fob isn't working properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular type of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your particular vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If everything else fails, an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but more affordable. They can be easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your key fob may just stop working - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be caused by a number of factors that include broken battery contacts or buttons. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
You should first confirm whether your backup remote capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your car. If it can't, you may have a problem with your main remote. If you 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 the key fob and perform a visual examination of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. After you're finished replacing the battery in your key fob and put it back together.
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 break the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuitboard. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, you can reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't solve the problem, you may have a more serious problem. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a repair shop that is specifically geared to the car's model. They can diagnose the problem with a radio frequency test that is a device that determines if your key fob is transmitting a signal to the car's computer.
Hopefully, this guide was helpful to anyone having issues with their vehicle's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be delighted to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!