Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature remote keys that can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there are issues.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to resolve. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in the key fob. The battery is a small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain the function of the device. There are other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning, aside from the battery. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob has stopped functioning Replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery, which is easily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you locate the specific type of battery it takes.
When you have the correct battery, carefully open the key fob and remove its existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob prior to you do this to make sure that you put it back together the right way. This simple step could save you from needing to purchase a new fob simply because you made an error when putting it together.
It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an alternate mechanical key, also known as an emergency blade. This key blade is located within 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, find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery's voltage with extra caution, you can use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can get a multimeter in many hardware stores for a few dollars. In general, the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading lower than that could mean that the battery is in its last days and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items, but they aren't indestructible. They can cease functioning after a certain period of time, especially when they are frequently used or have been exposed to physical abuse. In most cases it is easy to identify the issue and fix it by using a remote fob. In most cases all that's needed is a new battery.
Modern car key fobs come with numerous buttons that serve different functions. For example they can be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When the button is pressed the fob sends out the radio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset simply by snapping the device in two and checking to make sure they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may be loose over time, even though they are not intended to be removed. If the button contacts are disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job could be enough to put them back into place and restore the fob to full functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons may be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. 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 a safe place in the event that the one you are using most often stops working. This can to avoid being stuck without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance or 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's cap to get wet. This can happen from the pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause havoc with the electronics inside, causing many malfunctions. The good part is that keys can typically be saved from death's edge by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
First, check that the buttons still work correctly. This usually means removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons don't pop back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to ensure there's nothing blocking the functioning of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers, and then remove the battery. Don't disassemble the antennas or circuit board. These have electric current running through them that keeps the key fob programmed to your car, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.
After you've removed and replaced your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob by placing it into the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will prevent future moisture problems and make your key fob more robust.
If, after all this, the fob is still not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your specific make and model of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to 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 look just like the original key fob, but are much more affordable and are able to be paired with your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the expense and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might cease to function even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. It is possible to fix the issue yourself by performing basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify whether your backup remote able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it does, then you may have a problem with your main remote. If you are still unable to do it, you can try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery it's recommended to take off your key fob and conduct an examination of the circuit board. Check for cracked 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, test its connection to your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to pry apart the two parts of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing down. Once visit the website 've reinserted the circuit board, rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this does not resolve the issue, you might have a larger issue. In this instance you'll need to call your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the model of your car. They can pinpoint the issue by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines if your key fob is sending signals to your car's computer.
Hopefully, this guide has been helpful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any other questions or issues, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.