12 Companies Leading The Way In Key Fob Repair
Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of high-tech equipment, it can sometimes experience issues.
repair car key remote are usually very easy to fix. It can be as simple as resetting the device and you should be able to do by following the resetting instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a tiny and affordable part that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functionality. 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 reason. If your key fob's battery has stopped working Replace the battery.
Be sure to have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs use the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that's easily available at many stores. The size of many of these batteries is engraved on the outside of the key fob. You can identify the kind of battery your car requires by searching for the brand name.
Take your key fob apart carefully and remove the current battery. Take a picture of the inside of your fob to make sure you put it back together correctly. This simple step could help you avoid having to purchase a replacement fob simply because you made an error while putting it back together.
You should also be aware that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, also known as an emergency blade. This is found inside the fob's key and allows you to open the driver's side door in case the remote control isn't working. To access the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is typically covered by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you're looking to test the battery's voltage using extra caution, you can use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have a voltmeter built into their casings, but you can also purchase a multimeter for just a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. Generally, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or greater. A reading that is lower than that could indicate that the battery 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 convenience items however they're not impervious to damage. Remotes can stop working after some time, especially if they are used often or have been exposed to physical abuse. In most cases it's simple to spot an 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 multiple buttons for different functions like locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it sends a radio signal to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which can be especially useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by snapping it off and ensuring whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't designed to be disassembled, but the battery connectors on a key fob can become loose as time passes. Soldering is a method to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they have been disconnected. This will restore the fob's functionality.
Additionally, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons may be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned in any way. These problems are more difficult to fix on your own. However, a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.
Keep a spare key fob in an area that is secure, just in the event that the one you are using most often stops working. This will prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. It is also advisable to look over your insurance policy for your car or membership in a car club or extended warranty coverage to see whether it covers the cost of programming or replacing the new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for keys to get wet, be it from a pool, a rainstorm or even your washing machine. The moisture that is resulting can cause a range of issues with the electronic components. The good part is that a key fob can often be kept from a cliff by drying out thoroughly and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to make sure the buttons are working properly. This usually involves taking them out, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons aren't working or don't appear to be able to open, it could be 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 then remove the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob's programed to your vehicle, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you've replaced and removed the battery, it's recommended to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag filled with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent future moisture issues and help your key fob last longer.
If the fob still doesn't work, you can go to a dealership or an independent shop, that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If you're not able to find an alternative 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 your factory fob, but are much less expensive and are able to be paired with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of do-it yourself replacements that you can re-program in minutes.
Check the Connections
Sometimes your key fob might cease to function - even though it's programmed to your vehicle. This could be caused by many factors that include damaged contacts on the battery or buttons. If this is the case, you might be capable of fixing it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that the backup remote you have is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it can't it, then you might have a problem in your main remote. If you are still unable to do it, you can try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.
It's a good idea to take apart your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Check for cracked solder joints. When you're done, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
After you've replaced the battery and reassembled the key fob, you're now ready to test out its connection to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it is placed with the negative side facing down. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you can put it back together and try again.
If this does not resolve the issue, you could have a larger problem. In this instance you'll need to either 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 by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines if your key fob is transmitting signals to your car's computer.
This guide will be helpful for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach us for assistance. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.