10 Things We Do Not Like About Key Fob Repair

Remote Key Fob Repair

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

Usually, they are easy to fix. It's as simple as resetting it which you should be able accomplish by following the resetting guidelines in the manual of your owner.

Check the Battery

The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. The battery is a tiny component that is inexpensive and needs to be replaced frequently to maintain the functionality of the fob. But, aside from the battery, there are other reasons why your key fob isn't working. The reasons could be physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. Whatever the reason when your key fob isn't responding it's time for a replacement battery.

Ensure you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery that is readily available in a wide range of stores. The majority of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand will help you identify the exact type of battery it takes.

Once you have the proper battery take a moment to open the key fob, and then remove the existing battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple action can help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob because you made an error when putting it together.

You should also be aware that some key fobs have an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This key blade is located within the key fob and allows you to unlock the door of the driver's seat of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch that's located in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually covered by the plastic casing of the fob.

If you'd like to test the battery's voltage with extra caution, you can make use of a multimeter. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter embedded in their casings. However, you can also purchase a multimeter for just a few dollars from most hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or greater. A reading that is lower than that could indicate a battery that is in its final stages and should be replaced immediately.

Check the Buttons

They might look like modern, high-tech items of convenience, but car key fobs aren't durable. It's not uncommon for these remotes to fail after a while, especially when the vehicle is being frequented or there's lots of physical abuse that is associated with it. Fortunately, the majority of times it's easy to determine and repair a problem with the remote key fob and replacing the battery is often all that's needed.

Modern car key fobs come with numerous buttons that serve different functions. For instance they can lock and unlock the doors as well as activate the panic button, and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it sends a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs include an option to start the car, which is particularly useful during cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.

Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset by simply snapping the device in two and checking to make sure they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose in time, even though they aren't designed to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have become disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job could be enough to put them back on track and restore the fob to its full functionality.

In addition, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to repair on your own. However, a local auto shop can fix them using the right equipment and expertise.

Keep a spare key fob a safe place, just in case the one you use most often stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys repair, or having to pay a lot to have the car towed to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car key immobiliser repair club membership, or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a new key fob.

Check the Casing

It's not common for keys to get submerged, whether from a pool, rainstorm or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a variety of malfunctions within the electronic. It's good to know that you can save a key fob from dying by following a few simple steps and drying it thoroughly.

First, check whether the buttons function properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and rebuilding them. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace the remote.

It is also important to inspect the case to make sure there's nothing blocking the functioning of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and take out the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These have electric current running through them that keep the key fob programmed to your car remote key repair shop near me, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.

After you've removed and replaced your battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob out by placing it in the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help your key fob last longer.

If the fob is not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular model and make of vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the fob's key to your vehicle and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.

If everything else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased through the internet or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes look just like the original key fob, however, they are more affordable and can be easily connected with your vehicle using simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the high cost and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed within a matter of minutes at home.

Check the Connections

Sometimes, your key fob will cease to function - even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. It could be due to a variety of reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. It is possible to solve the issue yourself by performing basic maintenance.

The first thing you have to do is ensure that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does, then you may have problems with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to replace the battery in your backup remote.

Before replacing the battery It's a good idea to pull off the key fob and conduct a visual inspection of the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done replacing the battery in your key fob and reassemble it.

After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, make sure you test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to take apart the two parts of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it's inserted with the negative side facing down. Once you've reinserted the circuit board, rebuild the key fob and try again.

If this doesn't resolve the problem, you may have a larger issue. In this case you'll need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the make of the car you own. They can identify the issue by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines whether or not your key fob transmits an indication to the computer in your car.

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