Blog entry by Bonita Bertrand
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with the remote key fob which can lock, unlock and start the car. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there can be issues.
They are generally easy to repair. It is as easy as resetting it and you should be able accomplish by following the resetting instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive component that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. There are other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning, aside from the battery. These issues could include physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. If your key fob is not working, replace the battery.
First, ensure that you have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 which is easily found in a wide range of stores. The size of many of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the specific kind of battery that it uses.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob prior to you do this to ensure that you put it back together the right way. This simple step could help you avoid having to buy a new fob simply because you made an error when putting it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. This is located within the fob's key and allows you to access your car's driver's door in the event that your remote control isn't working. To access the key repair shop near me blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's in the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to be extra cautious, you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key repair fobs have a built-in voltmeter, but you can buy a multimeter in the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. The battery should generally read at 3.0 volts or more. A reading that is lower than this could indicate that the battery is at its end and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items, but car key fobs aren't indestructible. It's not uncommon for remotes to fail after a time, particularly if the vehicle is used frequently or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse that is associated with it. Most of the time, it's easy to diagnose an issue and fix it with the remote fob. Usually, all that is needed is an upgrade to the battery.
Many modern-day car keys have several buttons that can be used for various purposes 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 sends out a radio signal with an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which can be especially handy during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it off and ensuring that they are not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be disassembled, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob can be loose as time passes. Soldering is a way to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been cut off. This will restore the fob's functionality.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These problems are more difficult to repair on your own. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them with the right equipment and expertise.
Keep a spare key fob in a safe location, just in the event that the one you are using is not working as often. You'll avoid being stuck in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your vehicle taken to the dealer. You should also look over your car key button repair insurance policy or car club membership extended warranty coverage to determine if it covers the cost of replacing or programming an entirely new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to get wet. It could be the result of the pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronics inside, leading to many malfunctions. The good news is that keys can typically be kept from the brink of death by drying it thoroughly and following a few easy steps.
First, check whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and rebuilding them. If the buttons aren't functioning or pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.
Examine the case to ensure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers where to repair car key remote remove the case and remove the battery, but do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.
If the fob is still not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your specific model and make of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob of your vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If nothing else works then you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes function just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They can be easily connected to your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it yourself replacements that you can re-program in minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might not function, even though it's programmed to work for your vehicle. It could be due to many factors such as broken battery contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be capable of fixing it yourself by performing basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to ensure is that your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can, then you might have a problem with your main remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. When you're done you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, test the 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. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery 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 solve the issue, you might have a more serious problem. In this case, you will have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the specific model of your car. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, an instrument that determines if your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the computer in your car.
Hopefully, this guide was helpful for anyone who is experiencing issues with their car remote key repair near me's 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!