Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there could be issues.
Usually these are very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the manual of your owner.
Check company website is powered by the battery that is in the key fob. The battery is a tiny, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain the function of the device. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons why your key fob isn't working. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Whatever what google did to me fob isn't responding it's time for a replacement battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs are powered by the standard CR2032 three-volt battery which is readily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the edges of the fob. You can identify the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.
Take your key fob apart carefully and take out the original battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob to make sure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can help you avoid having to buy a new fob simply because you made an error when making it.
You should also be aware that some key fobs have an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This key blade is located inside the key fob, and allows you to unlock the door of the driver's seat of your car in the event that the remote control is not working. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch located in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to be extra vigilant, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings. However, you can also get an extra multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or 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 might look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items however, car key fobs aren't impervious to destruction. They can cease functioning after a period of time, especially when they are used frequently or have been exposed to physical abuse. Fortunately, most of the time it can be easy to identify and repair a problem with the remote key fob and changing the battery is typically all that's required.
The majority of modern car key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking doors as well as activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Certain fobs come with a button to start the car, which is useful in cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be disassembled however, the battery connector terminals on a key fob could become loose over time. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job is enough to get them back into place and return the fob to full function.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These types of problems are typically more difficult to fix on your own, but can usually be addressed by a local auto shop that has the right equipment and experience.
Keep an extra key fob in a safe location, just in the event that the one you use most often stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or paying for a large amount to have your vehicle taken to the dealer. You should also check your car insurance policy or car club membership extended warranty coverage to see if it will cover the cost of programming or replacing a new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not unusual for a keyfob to become wet. It can happen due to a swimming pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can trigger a myriad of malfunctions within the electronic. It's good to be aware that you can save your key fob from death by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are working correctly. This usually means removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons aren't functioning or pop in, it may be time to replace your remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to ensure there is nothing that could be affecting the function of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and take out the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob programmed it will be required to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've removed and replaced the battery It's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future moisture issues and help the battery last longer.
If the fob is not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular make and model of vehicle. They can re-program the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully return it to its full functionality.
If you're not able to find an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes are just like the factory key fob, but more affordable. They can be easily connected to your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of do-it yourself replacements that you can re-program within a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob may cease to function - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to many reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by doing some basic maintenance.
The first thing you have to ensure is that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it can, then you might have problems with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
Before you replace the battery It's an excellent idea to take off the key fob and perform a visual examination of the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that must be replaced with solder. After you've finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and put it back together.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test out its connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. Then, you can break the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuitboard. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing down. After you've inserted the circuit board, you can reassemble the key fob and try again.
If this doesn't solve the problem, you may have a bigger problem. In this instance you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the model of your vehicle. They can diagnose the problem using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines whether or not your key fob is transmitting an indication to your car's computer.
This guide should be helpful for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.