Remote Key Fob Repair

Modern vehicles come with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there are problems.

These are usually very easy to repair. 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 component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced frequently in order to maintain the function of the device. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob is not functioning then replace the battery.

Make sure you have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs are powered by a common three-volt CR2032 battery that's easily available at many stores. Most of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand will help you identify the exact kind of battery that it uses.

When you have the correct battery take a moment to open the key fob and remove its existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do this to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple action can save you from needing to purchase a new fob because you made an error while putting it together.

Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob, and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your car in the event that the remote control fails. In order to access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's at the center of your fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.

If you want to be extra vigilant, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also purchase a multimeter for just a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. In general the battery should read 3.0 volts and higher. A reading that is lower than this could indicate that the battery is at its end and requires replacement immediately.

Check the Buttons

Key fobs for cars may appear to be nothing more than high-tech items for convenience however they're not impervious to damage. Remotes can stop functioning after a certain period of time, especially when they are used frequently or have been exposed to physical abuse. Most of the time it is easy to identify an issue and fix it by using the Remote Key Fob Repair Near Me fob. Usually all that's required is an upgrade to the battery.

The majority of modern car key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions, such as locking and unlocking the 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 within the vehicle. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which is particularly useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of the key fob can be loose over time, even though they are not designed to be disassembled. Soldering is a way to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board if they've been disconnected. This will bring back the fob's functionality.

If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These kinds of issues are usually more difficult to solve on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.

It's always a good idea to keep an extra key somewhere in case one of the ones that you frequently use fails to function. You can avoid being stranded in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or having to pay an enormous amount to have the car taken to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing the key fob.

Check the Casing

It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It could be the result of an in-ground pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause destruction to the electronics inside, causing a host of malfunctions. The good part is that a key fob can often be kept from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.

The first step is to check the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves taking them out and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.

Examine the case to ensure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery but do not disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These have electric current running through them, which keeps the key fob's programming to your vehicle, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.

After you've replaced and removed the battery It's a good idea to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.

If, after all this, the fob isn't working properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your specific make and model of vehicle key repairs. They can re-program the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.

If all else fails then you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are just like the original fob, but are more affordable. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it-yourself replacements that you can re-program in a matter of minutes.

Check the Connections

Your key fob might not function, even though it is still programmed for your vehicle. It could be due to many factors such as broken battery contacts or buttons. You may be able fix the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.

The first thing you have to do is ensure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car keys repair near me's doors. If it can, then you might have an issue with your primary remote key repair. If you still can't do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.

It's a great idea disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and then inspect the circuit board. Check for cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done replacing the battery in your key fob and put it back together.

After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you should test the connection to your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then pry apart your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, you are able to rebuild the key fob and try again.

If this doesn't solve the issue, you could have a bigger issue. In this situation you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the specific model of your car. They can diagnose the problem using a radio frequency tester that is a device that can determine if your key fob is transmitting an indication to the car's computer.

This guide will be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. We'll be glad to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!