Remote Key Fob Repair

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

These are usually very easy to repair. It can be as simple as resetting it which you should be able do by following the resetting instructions in the manual of your owner.

Check the Battery

The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a small component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced frequently to maintain the functionality of the automotive key repair fob. There are many other reasons your key fob might not be functioning, aside from the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped functioning then replace the battery.

Make sure you have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs are powered by a common three-volt CR2032 battery that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. The size of many of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car key repair service's brand should help you find the specific type of battery it takes.

The fob must be opened carefully and take out the original battery. Photograph the inside of the fob before you do this to ensure that you put it back together in the correct way. This simple action can help you avoid needing to purchase a new fob because you made an error while putting it together.

It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an additional mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This is found inside the key fob and allows you to open the driver's side door in case the remote key fob repairs control fails to function. 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 circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.

If you're looking to be extra cautious, you can make use of a multimeter to test the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter embedded in their casings, however you can also get an extra multimeter for a few dollars from most hardware stores. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or more. If it reads lower than that, it could indicate the battery is in its last days and requires replacement immediately.

Check the Buttons

Car key fobs might appear like little more than fancy, high-tech convenience items however they're not impervious to damage. It's not uncommon for these remotes to fail after a time, particularly when the vehicle is frequented or there's an excessive amount of physical abuse involving it. Fortunately, a majority of the time it can be easy to determine and repair a problem with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is typically all that's needed.

A lot of modern car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions 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 inside the vehicle. Some fobs have an option to start the car, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob could become loose in time, even though they are not designed to be disassembled. If the button contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job can be enough to put them back into place and restore the fob to full function.

If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons could be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These problems are more difficult to repair by yourself. However, a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.

It's always recommended to keep an extra key somewhere in the event that one of the ones you use regularly stops working. This can prevent you from being stranded without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have the vehicle towing back to the dealer. You should also check your insurance policy for your car or car club membership extended warranty coverage to see if it will cover the cost of replacing or programming a new fob.

Check the Casing

It's not unusual for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of the pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronics inside, causing many malfunctions. It's good to be aware that you can save your key fob from destruction by following a few simple steps and thoroughly drying it.

First, make sure whether the buttons function properly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them and rebuilding them. If the buttons are stuck or don't appear to be able to open, it could be the time to replace your 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 however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob's programed to your vehicle. And if you disturb those circuits, you'll need to go to a dealer or choose an Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.

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

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 reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.

If nothing else works If all else fails, you can buy an additional keyfob online, or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These DIY remotes are just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They can be easily connected to your vehicle using simple instructions. If you'd like to avoid the expense and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed in minutes at home.

Check the Connections

Your key fob might not function, even though it's programmed for your vehicle. This could be caused by a number of factors such as malfunctioning battery contacts or buttons. You may be able fix the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.

The first thing you need to do is make sure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't then there could be an issue with your primary remote. 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 inspect the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done with that you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.

After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you should test the connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to take apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board and reassembled your key fob.

If this doesn't work, there is a bigger problem. In this case, call your dealer or a service shop that is specialized in your car's make. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, an instrument that determines if your key fob transmits an electronic signal to the car key immobiliser repair's computer.

This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their car key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be delighted to assist you in getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!