12 Companies Leading The Way In Key Fob Repair
Remote Key Fob Repair
The majority of modern cars now have the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of high-tech equipment it isn't without issues.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to resolve. It can be as simple as resetting it, which you should be able do by following the instructions for resetting in the manual of your owner.
Check the Battery
The battery of a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small, inexpensive component that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning, aside from the battery. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the cause. Regardless of the cause when your key fob is unresponsive, it's time to replace the battery.
Ensure you have the correct size battery. The majority of modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 that is readily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is printed on the edges of the key fob. You can determine the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Once you have the right battery then carefully open your key fob and take out its battery. Take a photograph of the inside of your fob to make sure you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from purchasing another fob because you made an error when making it back together.
Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. The key blade is situated inside the key fob and it allows you to unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. In order to access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch that's located in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to test the battery's voltage with extra caution, you can use a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have an voltmeter in their casings, but you can also purchase a multimeter for a few dollars at most hardware stores. The battery should generally be reading 3.0 volts or more. 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
Car key fobs may seem like nothing more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however, they're not indestructible. They can cease working after some time, especially when they are used frequently or if they were subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, a majority of the time it can be easy to diagnose and repair a problem with remote key fobs, and replacing the battery is often all that is required.
A lot of modern car key fobs feature several buttons that can be used for various purposes including locking and unlocking doors and activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it transmits a radio code to a receiver within the vehicle. Certain fobs come with an option to start the car, which is useful on cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
Typically, the buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping the device in two and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't made to be removed however the battery connectors on a key fob could become loose as time passes. If the contacts on the button have been disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job can be enough to get them back in place and return the fob to full functionality.
If a fob gets damaged or dropped, the buttons could be damaged, misaligned or out of alignment. These types of problems are usually more difficult to fix on your own, but they can be resolved by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.
It's always recommended to keep an extra fob in case one that you frequently use fails to function. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying for a large amount to have your car transported to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage for the cost of replacing a replacement key fob.
Check the Casing
It's not uncommon for the key fob to become wet, be it from a pool, rainstorm or even your washing machine. The resulting moisture can cause a range of malfunctions within the electronic components. It's important to know that you can save your key fob from destruction by following a few easy steps and drying it thoroughly.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are still functioning properly. This usually involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons don't pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace your remote.
You'll also want to check the case to ensure there is nothing that could be affecting the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programming, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.
After you have removed and replaced your battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it into a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will avoid future problems with moisture and will make your key fob more durable.
If the fob doesn't work, you can visit a dealership or an independent shop, that is focused on the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully return it to full functionality.
If nothing else works If all else fails, you can buy an additional keyfob online, or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes are just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the expense and hassle of a dealership visit, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be reprogrammed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Sometimes, your key fob will simply stop working, even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be due a variety of reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be capable of fixing it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance.
You should first confirm whether your backup remote able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't it, then you might have issues with your primary remote. If not, then automotive key repair to replace the battery in the backup remote.
Before replacing car key remote repair 's an excellent idea to take apart your key fob and do a visual examination of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. After you're finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and put it back together.
After you have replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, 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 break the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't work, there is a bigger problem. In this case you'll need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can identify the issue using a radio-frequency tester, a device which determines if your key fob transmits a signal to the computer in your car.
This guide should be helpful to anyone who is having issues with their vehicle key fob. Contact us if have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.