What You Should Be Focusing On Enhancing Key Fob Repair
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. As with car keys repair -tech piece equipment, there are problems.
They are generally easy to repair. It's as simple as resetting the device and you should be able to accomplish by following the instructions for resetting in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced on a regular basis to maintain the functionality of the key fob. However, in addition to the battery, there could be other reasons your fob may not be working. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped working, replace the battery.
First, make sure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery, which is easily available in a wide range of stores. Most of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact type of battery it takes.
Open your key fob carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from buying a new fob because you made an error when making it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that your remote control isn't working. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch that's located in the middle of the fob. The notch is typically a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to be extra vigilant you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have an voltmeter embedded in their casings, however you can also purchase a multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They might look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items, but keys for cars aren't indestructible. They can cease working after some time, particularly if they are used often or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. Fortunately, the majority of times it's easy to diagnose and fix the issue with the remote key fob and changing the battery is often all that's required.
Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For example they can lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button and open the trunk. When you press a button the fob transmits a radio signal with a code that is recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs include an option to start the car, which is particularly useful during cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on keys can be reset by snapping the device apart and ensuring they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't usually designed to be taken apart however, the battery connector terminals on a key fob could get loose as time passes. If the button contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to put them back on track and restore the fob to full functionality.
In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons could be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These issues are more difficult to repair by yourself. However an auto repair shop in your area can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob an area that is secure in the event that the one you are using frequently stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying an enormous amount to have the vehicle transported 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 new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob to become wet. It could be the result of a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronic components inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's a good idea to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a few easy steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to check the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons don't click back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking 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. If you disrupt the circuits that keep your key fob programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you have replaced and removed the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will avoid future problems with moisture 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 focused on the model and make of your vehicle. They can re-program the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If you're not able to find a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes function just like the factory fob but much cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the expense and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may cease to function even though it's programmed for your vehicle. This could be caused by a number of factors, including broken batteries or buttons. If this is the case, you might be capable of fixing it yourself by performing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to do is ensure that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't then there could be issues with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.
Before replacing the battery It's a good idea to pull off the key fob and do a visual inspection of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracked solder joints. After that, you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you should test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be able to pry apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's inserted with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted the board, you can reassemble your key fob.
If this doesn't work for you, then you may have a larger issue. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a service shop that is specifically geared to your car's make. They can determine the problem with a radio-frequency analyzer, a device which determines if your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer.
I hope this guide was helpful to anyone having issues with their vehicle's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.