The Three Greatest Moments In Key Fob Repair History

Remote Key Fob Repair Modern vehicles come with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of high-tech equipment it isn't without problems. Usually, they are easy to fix. 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. It's a small, inexpensive part that should be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functioning. However, in addition to the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning properly. These issues could include physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure. Regardless of the cause when your key fob isn't responding it's time to replace its battery. Ensure you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032, which is easily available in a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are stamped with the size on one of the fob's edges. You can determine the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name. Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the existing battery. Take a photograph of the inside of the fob to ensure that you put it back together correctly. This simple step can save you from buying an entirely new fob because you made an error when making it back together. Some key fobs also have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. It's located inside the key fob and permits you to open your car's driver's side door in case the remote control doesn't work. To get to 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're looking to test the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can purchase a multimeter in many hardware stores for a few dollars. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts and higher. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its last stages and should be replaced immediately. Check the Buttons They may appear to be high-tech, fancy convenience items however, car key fobs are not impervious to destruction. They can cease functioning after a period of time, especially when they are frequently used or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. Most of the time, it's easy to diagnose an issue and fix it by using the remote fob. Most of the time, all that is needed is an upgrade to the battery. A lot of modern car key fobs have several buttons that can be used for various purposes like locking and unlocking the doors and activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is useful on cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days. The buttons on a key fob are reset by taking it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose in time, even though they are not intended to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button are disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job is enough to put them back in place and restore the fob to full functionality. If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons may be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These types of problems are typically more difficult to solve on your own, however, they can be fixed by a local auto shop that has the right tools and expertise. Keep a spare key fob a safe place in the event that the one you use frequently stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the middle of nowhere without keys, or paying a lot to have the vehicle taken to the dealer. It is also advisable to examine your insurance policy for your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to see if it covers the cost of replacing or programming a new fob. Check the Casing It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. It could be the result of a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronics inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's a good idea to be aware that you can save a key fob from dying by following a couple of simple steps and thoroughly drying it. First, make sure whether the buttons are working correctly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. buttons. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote. You'll also want to check the case to ensure there's nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and take out the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. These have electric current running through them that keeps the key fob programmed to your car, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device. After you have removed and replaced your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by putting it in an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will help prevent future moisture issues and make your key fob last longer. If the fob is not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in your particular make and model of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to its full functionality. If nothing else works, you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are just like the factory fob but much cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the cost and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in minutes at home. Check the Connections Your key fob may stop working even though it is still programmed to work for your vehicle. This could be due to various reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you may be able to fix it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance. You should first confirm whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't, you probably have problems with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote. It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any cracked solder joints that require to be re-soldering. Once you're done with that, you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob. Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test the connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of your key fob. From there, remote key repairs can take apart the two pieces of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's placed with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you are able to reassemble the key fob and try again. If this doesn't work for you, then you have a bigger issue. In this case, call your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, an instrument that determines whether your key fob sends signals to the car's computer. This guide is intended to be of assistance for anyone who has issues with their vehicle key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!