Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there are problems.
Usually these are very simple to fix. It's as simple as resetting it which you should be able to accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery of the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain the functionality of the key fob. But, aside from car keys repair , there could be other reasons why your key fob isn't working. These issues could include physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. Whatever the reason when your key fob's sensor is not responding it's time for a replacement battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs use a common three-volt CR2032 battery that's easily available at many stores. The size of many of these batteries is stamped on the edges of the key fob. You can find the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the proper battery then carefully open your key fob, and then remove the existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob before you do this to make sure that you put it back together correctly. This simple step can save you from purchasing an entirely new fob if you make a mistake when making it back together.
It is also important to know that some key fobs include an alternate mechanical key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control is not working. To get to the blade of the key, you must 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's voltage with extra care, you can use a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have built-in voltmeters, but you can buy a multimeter at many hardware stores for a few dollars. Generally, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading below that level could indicate that the battery is in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs might appear like little more than fancy modern, high-tech gadgets, but they aren't indestructible. It isn't unusual for these remotes to cease working after a while, especially when the vehicle is being frequented or there is lots of physical abuse involving it. Most of the time it's simple to spot the issue and fix it with a remote fob. In most cases, all that is needed is an updated battery.
The majority of modern car keys have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking doors as well as activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When the button is pressed the fob transmits the radio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which can be especially useful during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob are reset by simply taking it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't made to be removed however the battery connectors on a key fob can be loose as time passes. If the button contacts have been disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job is enough to put them back in place and return the fob to full functionality.
Additionally, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons could be damaged or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to fix on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe location, just in the event that the one you use most often stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the middle of nowhere without your keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your vehicle transported to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to become wet. It can happen due to a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause havoc with the electronics inside, causing numerous malfunctions. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be kept from death's edge by drying out thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
First, verify that the buttons still work correctly. This usually involves taking them out and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons don't click back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and remove the battery. Don't 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 when you break the circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have removed and replaced your battery, it is recommended to dry the key fob by putting it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and make the battery 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 reprogramme the key fob of your specific vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If you're not able to find the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it yourself remotes are similar to the factory fob but much more affordable. car keys repair can be easily paired to your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the expense and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might not function, even though it's programmed for your car. This could be caused by a number of factors, including broken battery contacts or buttons. You could be able to fix the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.
You should first check whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it can, then you might have a problem with your main remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea to disassemble your key fob before 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 repaired by re-soldering. After you're finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and reassemble it.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to take apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, you can put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work, then you may have a larger issue. In this situation you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the specific model of the car you own. They can identify the issue using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines if your key fob transmits signals to your car's computer.
I hope this guide has been helpful for anyone who is having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.