Remote Key Fob Repair

Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. Like any other high-tech piece of equipment, there could be issues.

Usually, they are easy to resolve. You can reset it by following the directions in the owner's manual.

Check the Battery

The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the functionality of the key fob. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons your fob isn't working. These issues could include physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped working, replace the battery.

First, ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 three-volt battery that's easily available at many stores. The size of most of these batteries is stamped on the edges of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact type of battery it takes.

The fob must be opened carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from purchasing another fob if you make an error when making it back together.

Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. This is located within the key fob and permits you to access your car's driver's door in case the remote control fails to function. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch that's located in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.

If you'd like to test the battery's voltage using more care, use a multimeter. The majority of modern automotive key repair fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can purchase a multimeter at the majority of hardware stores for a few dollars. In general, the battery should read 3.0 volts and higher. A reading that is lower than that could indicate that the battery is in its last stages 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 remote devices to stop working after a while, especially when the vehicle is frequented or there is lots of physical abuse that is associated with it. Fortunately, the majority of time it can be easy to diagnose and fix a problem with the remote key repair near me key fob and changing the battery is typically all that's needed.

A lot of modern car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions, such as locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob sends out the radio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs also come with a button that will start the engine, which is particularly useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be disassembled, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob may become loose over time. If the contacts on the button have been disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to put them back into place and allow the fob back to full function.

If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These issues are more difficult to fix on your own. However, a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.

It's always a good idea to keep an extra fob in the event that one of the ones you use regularly stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your car taken to the dealer. It is also advisable to examine your car insurance policy, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to see whether it will cover the cost of programming or replacing an entirely new fob.

Check the Casing

It's not common for the key fob to become wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of malfunctions within the electronics. It's good to know that you can save a key fob from dying by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.

First, make sure whether the buttons are working properly. This usually involves taking them out and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.

You'll also want to check the case to ensure nothing is interfering with the function of the key fob. Use tweezers or pliers to open the case and remove the battery, but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob's programming to your car, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.

After you've replaced and removed the battery it's a good idea to dry out the fob by placing it in a plastic bag with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer.

If the fob doesn't work, you can go to 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 nothing else works, you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes are similar to the factory fob but much more affordable. They can be easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it yourself replacements that can be programmed in a matter of minutes.

Check the Connections

Occasionally your key fob might cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. This could be caused by various reasons such as malfunctioning battery contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be in a position to fix it yourself by performing basic maintenance.

The first thing you need to do is make sure that your backup remote can lock and key repair near me and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't it, then you might have a problem in your main remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote.

Before replacing the battery It's a good idea to pull off your key fob and perform an examination of the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be replaced with solder. After that you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.

After you've replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you're now ready to test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to break the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you are able where to repair car key remote (visit this page) rebuild the key fob and try again.

If this doesn't resolve the problem, you may have a bigger problem. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a service shop that is specifically geared to the make of your vehicle. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, an instrument that determines whether your key fob sends a signal to the computer in your car.

This guide will be helpful for anyone who has issues with their vehicle key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be glad to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!