One Key Fob Repair Success Story You'll Never Believe

Remote Key Fob Repair Modern vehicles come with a remote control that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. Like any high-tech piece of equipment, there are issues. Usually these are very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the directions in the owner's manual. Check the Battery The remote control is powered by the battery inside a key fob. It's a small, inexpensive component that needs to 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. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped functioning, replace the battery. Be sure to have the right size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a CR2032 three-volt battery which is easily found in many stores. Most of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your car's brand will help you identify the specific type of battery it takes. The fob must be opened carefully and remove the current battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to make sure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step could help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob simply because you made an error when putting it together. Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. This is found inside the key fob and allows you to open the driver's side door in the event that the remote control isn't working. To access the key blade, you have to locate the notch in the center of the fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob. If you're looking to be extra cautious, you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs have an voltmeter in their casings. However, you can also purchase an extra multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery in its last 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. These remote devices can stop functioning after a certain period of time, especially when they are frequently used or if they have been exposed to physical abuse. In most cases, it's easy to diagnose the issue and fix it with a remote fob. Usually all that's needed is an updated battery. A lot of modern car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions like locking and unlocking the doors as well as activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button is pressed the fob sends out the radio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is particularly useful during cold winter mornings and 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. Key fobs aren't usually made to be removed, but the battery connector terminals on a key fob can be loose over time. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been disconnected. This will bring back the fob's functionality. Additionally, if a fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned. These types of issues are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by an auto repair shop in your area with the proper tools and experience. Keep an extra key fob in an area that is secure in the event that the one you are using frequently stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying a lot to have the car transported to the dealer. Make sure to check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing the key fob. Check the Casing It's not unusual for a keyfob to become wet. This can happen from an in-ground pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak havoc with the electronics inside, causing a host of malfunctions. The good news is that a key fob can often be kept from death's edge by drying it thoroughly and executing a few simple steps. First, make sure whether the buttons are working properly. This usually means removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't come in, it might be the time to replace your remote. Examine the case to make sure that there is nothing blocking the operation of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and take out the battery. Don't remove the antennas or circuit board. If you disturb the circuits that keep your key fob programmed you'll need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it. After key repairs near me 've removed and replaced your battery, it is a good idea for you to dry the key fob by placing it into an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will avoid future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable. If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership, or an independent shop, that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully return it to its full functionality. If all else fails, a replacement key fob from NAPA can be purchased on the internet or at a local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it yourself remotes function just like the factory fob but much more affordable. They can be easily paired to your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the cost and hassle of a dealership visit, 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 might cease to function – even though it's still programmed to your vehicle. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. You could be able to fix the problem yourself by performing some basic maintenance. You should first check that your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it can't then there could be issues with your primary remote. If you can't, then it's time to replace the battery in the backup remote. It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. Check for cracked solder joints. After that, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob. After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, 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 can take apart the two halves of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative side facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board you can put it back together. key fob. If this doesn't work, you may have a larger issue. In this situation, you will have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that is specialized in the specific model of the car you own. They can pinpoint the issue by using a radio frequency tester that is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits signals to the computer in your car. This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their car key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.