Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature remote keys that can lock, unlock and start the car. However, as with any piece of modern technology it isn't without problems.
They are generally easy to repair. You can reset it by following the directions in your owner’s manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery that is in a key fob. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced on a regular basis in order to maintain the functionality of the key fob. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob isn't working. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Whatever the reason when your key fob isn't responding, it's time to replace its battery.
First, ensure that you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery, which is easily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is printed on the outside of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you locate the specific type of battery it takes.
The fob must be opened carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photograph of the inside of the fob to make sure you put it back together correctly. This simple action can save you from needing to purchase a new fob if you make an error when putting it back together.
It is important to be aware that some key fobs have an alternate mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob and it lets you unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control is not working. To open the blade of the key, you must locate the notch that lies in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to be extra cautious, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs come with a voltmeter built into their casings, but you can also purchase a multimeter for a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or more. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery that is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be sophisticated, luxurious convenience items however, car key fobs are not durable. It's not uncommon for remote devices to stop working after a time, particularly when the vehicle is frequented or there's a lot of physical abuse that is associated with it. Most of the time, it's easy to diagnose the issue and fix it with a remote fob. Most of the time, all that is needed is an upgrade to the battery.
Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For example they can be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When you press a button, the fob sends an audio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver located inside the car. TheKeyLab include an option to start the car, which is useful on cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by taking it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be taken apart, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob may be loose over time. If the buttons' contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job can be enough to put them back on track and restore the fob to its full functionality.
In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken, out of alignment or misaligned. These issues are more difficult to fix by yourself. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them using the right tools and experience.
Keep an extra key fob in an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you use is not working as often. This can keep you from being left without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It can happen due to the pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play havoc with the electronics inside, leading to many malfunctions. The good part is that a key fob can often be kept from death's edge by drying it thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are working properly. This usually means removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
You should also check the case to ensure there's nothing blocking the function of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove 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 programed to your vehicle. And if you disturb those circuits, you'll have to go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have replaced and removed the battery, it's recommended to dry the key fob out by putting it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will prevent future moisture problems and will make your key fob more robust.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to match your particular vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase an additional keyfob online, or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes function just like the original fob, but are more affordable. They are easily paired to your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the high cost and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will simply stop working, even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due a variety of reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. You may be able solve the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to ensure is that your backup remote can lock and unlock your car's doors. If it does, you may have a problem in your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's an excellent idea to take off the key fob and do an examination of the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that require to be replaced with solder. 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 the key fob, you should test the connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative end facing down. After you have reinserted the board you can put it back together. key fob.
If this doesn't work, you may have a larger issue. In this instance you'll need to call your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the make of your vehicle. They can pinpoint the issue by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that can determine if your key fob is sending signals to the car's computer.
Hopefully, this guide was helpful for anyone who is having issues with their vehicle's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be delighted to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!