Remote Key Fob Repair

The majority of modern cars now have the remote key fob which can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of high-tech equipment it is not without its own problems.

Most of the time, these issues are simple to resolve. It can be as simple as resetting the device and you should be able to accomplish by following the resetting guidelines in your owner's manual.

Check the Battery

The remote control is powered by the battery inside a key fob. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced regularly to maintain the function of the device. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons why your key fob may not be working. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob is not working, replace the battery.

First, make sure you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 which is easily found in a wide range of stores. The majority 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 you need.

Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob before you do this to ensure you put it back together the right way. This simple step can save you from needing to purchase a new fob because you made an error when making it.

Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the fob's key and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in case the remote control isn't working. To open the blade of the key, locate the notch that lies in the middle of the fob. The notch is typically covered by the plastic casing of the fob.

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 a voltmeter built into their casings. However, you can also get a multimeter for a few dollars from most hardware stores. In general, the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. If it reads lower than that, it could mean that the battery is in its last days and requires replacement immediately.

Check the Buttons

They may look like modern, high-tech items of convenience, but keys for cars aren't impervious to destruction. It's not uncommon for these remotes to cease working after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is frequented or there is lots of physical abuse associated with it. In most cases it's simple to spot the issue and fix it by using a remote fob. Most of the time all that's required is a new battery.

Modern car key repair company key fobs come with multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance, they can be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button and open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio signal to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is particularly useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can get loose over time, despite the fact that they are not intended to be disassembled. Soldering is a method to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board if they have been disconnected. This will allow the fob to function again.

In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be broken, out of alignment or otherwise misaligned. These types of problems are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but can usually be addressed by an auto repair shop in your area with the right equipment and experience.

Keep a spare key fob a safe place, just in the event that the one you are using frequently stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your vehicle transported to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car keys repair club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a new key fob.

Check the Casing

It's not uncommon for keys repair near me to get wet, whether from a pool, storm or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of malfunctions in the electronic components. The good thing is that a key fob can often be saved from a cliff by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.

The first step is to make sure the buttons are working correctly. This usually means removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace the remote.

Examine the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Remove the case using tweezers and remove the battery. Don't remove the circuit board or antennas. If you disrupt the circuits that keep your mobile key repair near me fob's programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.

After you have removed and replaced the battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it in the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will prevent any future moisture issues and help the battery last longer.

If the fob is not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular model and make of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob of your specific vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.

If all else fails If all else fails, you can buy an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These DIY remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but cheaper. They can be easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the expense and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.

Check the Connections

Occasionally your key fob might simply stop working, even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be caused by a number of factors, including broken battery contacts or buttons. You could be able to solve the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.

You should first confirm whether your backup remote capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it can't, you might have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote.

It's a great idea to take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any broken solder joints that need to be re-soldering. When you're done you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.

After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, make sure you test its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver in the notch on the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to break the two pieces 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 placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board you can put it back together. key fob.

If this doesn't work for you, then there is a bigger problem. In this situation you'll need to either call your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can pinpoint the issue with a radio frequency test, which is a device that determines whether or not your key fob transmits an indication to the car's computer.

Hopefully, this guide was helpful for anyone who is having issues with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any other questions or issues, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.