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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.
They are generally easy to repair. You can reset it by following the instructions in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery in the key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functionality. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons your fob may not be working. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component malfunction could be the reason. Regardless of the cause when your key fob is unresponsive it's time to replace the battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs use the standard CR2032 three-volt battery which is readily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is printed on the edges of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand will help you identify the exact kind of battery that it uses.
Once you have the proper battery take a moment to open your key fob, and then remove the battery. Photograph the inside of the fob before you do this to ensure you put it back together in the correct way. This simple trick will prevent you from having to purchase an entirely new fob because you made an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs have an electronic backup key, also 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 the event that the remote control isn't working. To get to the blade of the key, locate the notch that lies in the middle of your fob. The notch is typically an oval shape that is 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. The majority of modern key fobs have an voltmeter in their casings, however you can also purchase a multimeter for a few dollars from most hardware stores. In general, the battery should read 3.0 Volts or higher. A reading lower than that could mean that the battery is on its last legs and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
They may appear to be sophisticated, luxurious convenience items however, keys for cars aren't indestructible. They can cease working after some time, especially if they are used often or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. In most cases it is easy to identify the issue and fix it with the remote fob. Most of the time all that's needed is an updated battery.
The majority of modern car keys have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking doors and activating the panic button, and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed, the fob sends a radio signal with the code that is interpreted by a receiver in the car. Certain fobs come with a button to start the car, which is useful during cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by taking it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. The battery connector terminals of the key fob can be loose over time, even though they are not designed to be removed. Soldering is a method to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been cut off. click to read will bring back the fob's functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons may be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These types of problems are generally more difficult to fix on your own, however, they can be fixed by an auto repair shop in your area with the right tools and expertise.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in the event that one of the ones you regularly use stops working. This can help to avoid being stuck without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a new key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for the key fob to become wet, whether from a pool, a storm or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a variety of malfunctions in the electronic components. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be kept from the brink of death by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons are stuck or don't come in, it might be time to replace your remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to ensure there is nothing that could be affecting the functioning of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers, and then remove the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programming you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help the battery last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob for your specific vehicle and hopefully restore 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-operated remotes look like your factory fob, but are much less expensive and are able to be paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of replacements that can be programmed in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will just stop working - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. It could be due to various reasons, including damaged battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you may be in a position to fix it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
You should first check that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it can, then you may have problems with your primary remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, you can 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 conduct a visual examination of the circuit board. You'll need to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that must be re-soldering. Once you're done you can replace the battery on your key fob and put it back together.
Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test the 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 able to pry apart the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Install a brand new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, you are able to put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work, then you have a bigger issue. In this case you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the specific model of your car. They can identify the issue with a radio frequency test which is a gadget that can determine if your key fob transmits an indication to the computer in your car.
Hopefully, this guide has been useful to anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.
