Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock and start the car. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there are problems.
They are generally easy to repair. It's as simple as resetting the device and you should be able accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in a key fob. It's a small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons your fob may not be working. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component malfunction could be the reason. Whatever the cause when your key fob's sensor is not responding it's time to replace the battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a variety of stores. The size of many of these batteries is printed on the outside of the key fob. You can find the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple action can save you from having to purchase a replacement fob if you make an error when making it.
You should also be aware that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. This is located within the key fob and allows you to access your car's driver's door in case the remote control doesn't work. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch that's at the center of your fob. The notch is usually covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to be extra vigilant you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can purchase a multimeter at most hardware shops for a few bucks. In general the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading that is lower than this could indicate the battery is in its last days and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items, but they aren't indestructible. It isn't unusual for these remotes to cease working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is used frequently or if there's a lot of physical abuse involving it. Most of the time it is easy to identify an issue and fix it with a remote fob. Usually, all that is needed is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs include multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance they can be used to lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button, and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. how to repair car key fob include a button to start the engine, which can be especially handy during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob could get loose over time, despite the fact that they aren't designed to be disassembled. Soldering is a method to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been cut off. This will allow the fob to function again.
In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be broken or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These issues are more difficult to repair on your own. However, a local auto shop can fix them using the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in an area that is secure in case the one you use most often stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or having to pay an enormous amount to have the vehicle transported to the dealer. You should also examine your insurance policy for your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to see if it covers the cost of programming or replacing a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of the pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronics. It's a good idea to be aware that you can save your key fob from destruction by following a few simple steps and thoroughly drying it.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and rebuilding them. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.
You'll also want to check the case to make sure there is nothing that could be affecting the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and remove the battery but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob programmed to your car, and when you break the circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you've removed and replaced the battery It's a good idea to dry the fob by putting it in a plastic bag with silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will avoid any future issues with moisture and 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 particular type of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If all else fails then you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself-operated remotes look as the factory key fob but are much less expensive and can be easily paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the expense and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-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. It could be due to various reasons such as malfunctioning batteries or buttons. If this is the case, you may be capable of fixing it yourself by performing basic maintenance.
You should first confirm that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your car. If it can't then there could be issues with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that require to be re-soldering. Once you're done with that you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you should test its connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and then gently remove the circuit board. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, you are able to rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't work, then you have a bigger issue. In this situation you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the make of your car. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!