This Is The Key Fob Repair Case Study You'll Never Forget
Remote Key Fob Repair
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there could be issues.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The remote control is powered by the battery inside a key fob. It's a tiny and affordable part that should be replaced regularly to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. There are a variety of reasons your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. These issues could include physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. Regardless of the cause, if your key fob is unresponsive and is not responding, it's time to replace the battery.
First, ensure you have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in a wide range of stores. The size of most of these batteries is printed on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the specific type of battery you need.
Once key fob repair have the proper battery take a moment to open your key fob, and then remove the battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple step could save you from having to purchase a replacement fob simply because you made an error when making it.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency blade. The key blade is situated within the key fob and it lets you unlock the door of the driver's seat of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. In order to access the key blade, you need to locate the notch that's at the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery's voltage with extra care, you can make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with an integrated voltmeter, however you can purchase a multimeter at the majority of hardware stores for a few bucks. Generally speaking, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or higher. A reading below that level could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and must be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Car key fobs may seem like little more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however they're not impervious to damage. They can cease functioning after a period of time, especially when they are used frequently or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. Fortunately, a majority of the times, it's simple to identify and repair a problem with a remote key fob, and replacing the battery is usually all that's required.
Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For instance, they can lock and unlock the doors and activate the panic button, and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Certain fobs come with buttons to start the car, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons of keys can be reset by snapping the device in two and ensuring they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't made to be removed however the battery connectors on a key fob could be loose over time. If the contacts on the button are disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to get them back on track and allow the fob back to full function.
In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be damaged, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to fix by yourself. However, a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
It's always recommended to keep an extra fob in case one of the ones that you frequently use fails to function. This will 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 the key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It can happen due to an in-ground pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The moisture that results can cause a range of issues with the electronic. The good thing is that the key fob can usually be saved from the brink of death by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
First, check whether the buttons function properly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't click back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
It is also important to inspect the case to make sure nothing is interfering with the operation of the key fob. Remove the case using tweezers and take out the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed 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 a good idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packs or other desiccating agent. This will help prevent any future issues with moisture and will make your key fob more robust.
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 re-program the fob's key to your vehicle, and hopefully restore the function to its original state.
If online fails, an alternative key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These DIY remotes look like your factory fob, but are much more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle following easy instructions. If you want to skip the expense and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.
Check the Connections
Occasionally your key fob may simply stop working, even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be caused by various reasons that include malfunctioning battery contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify whether your backup remote capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it does, then you probably have an issue with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote.
It's a good 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 cracked solder joints that need to be replaced with solder. Once you're done with that, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, it's now time to test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch on the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and remove the circuitboard gently. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this does not resolve the issue, you might have a bigger problem. In this situation, you will need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the specific model of the car you own. They can diagnose the problem using a radio frequency tester that is a device that determines if your key fob is transmitting signals to the computer in your car.
I hope this guide has been helpful for anyone who is experiencing issues with their car's key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to help you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.