The 3 Greatest Moments In Key Fob Repair History
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of high-tech equipment it is not without its own issues.
Usually these are very simple to fix. It's as simple as resetting it and you should be able accomplish by following the resetting guidelines in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in the key fob. It's a small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functioning. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning properly. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component malfunction could be the reason. Whatever the reason, if your key fob isn't responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, make sure you have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. The majority 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.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do so to ensure you put it back together in the correct way. This simple step can help you avoid needing to purchase a new fob simply because you made an error when putting it together.
It is also important to know that some key fobs have an alternate mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. This is found inside the key fob and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that the remote control doesn't work. In order to access the key blade, you need to locate the notch in the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you'd like to test the battery voltage with extra caution, you can make use of a multimeter. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also purchase a multimeter for just a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or more. A reading below that level could indicate that the battery is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may look like high-tech, fancy convenience items however, car key repair near me key fobs aren't indestructible. It isn't unusual for these remote devices to stop working after a time, particularly when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there is lots of physical abuse that is associated with it. Fortunately, most of the times, it's simple to identify and repair a problem with a remote key fob, and changing the battery is often all that's required.
A lot of modern car key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions, such as locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which can be especially handy on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't usually made to be removed, but the battery connectors on a key fob may get 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 restore the fob to full function.
Additionally, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons could be broken, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These types of issues are usually more difficult to repair car keys near me on your own however, they can be fixed by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in case one you use regularly stops working. You can avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere without your keys, or paying a lot to have the vehicle transported to the dealer. It is also advisable to examine your insurance policy on your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to see whether it will cover the cost of replacing or programming the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to become wet. It can happen due to the pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of issues with the electronic components. The good part is that keys can typically be saved from the brink of death by drying out thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
First, make sure 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 your remote.
You should also check the case to ensure nothing is interfering with the functioning of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and take out the battery, however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob's programming to your vehicle. And if you disturb those circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.
After you have replaced and removed your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and help the battery last longer.
If the fob doesn't work, you can visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob of your vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If you're not able to find an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes are just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob may simply stop working, even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due a variety of reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you might be capable of fixing it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your car. If it can't it, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's a good idea to pull off the key fob and conduct an inspection of the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any broken key Repair solder joints that require to be repaired by re-soldering. When you're done you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. You can then break your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, you can put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work, then you have a bigger issue. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a service shop that is specialized in your car's make. They can identify the issue by using a radio-frequency tester which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key lock repair near me fob transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.
