From All Over The Web 20 Amazing Infographics About Key Fob Repair
remote key fob repair - writes in the official www.bitsdujour.com blog -
Most modern vehicles now feature a remote key fob that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there can be issues.
They are typically very simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small, inexpensive component that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob isn't working. Water exposure, physical damage or internal component failure could be the cause. Regardless of the cause the key fob isn't responding and is not responding, it's time for a replacement battery.
First, make sure you have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032, which is easily available in many stores. Most of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your car key fob repair near me's brand should help you locate the exact type of battery it takes.
Once you have the proper battery then carefully open your key fob and take out its existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob prior to you do this to ensure that you put it back together correctly. This simple step will save you from having to purchase another fob if you make an error when making it back together.
Certain key fobs also come with an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency car key repair blade. This is found inside the fob's key and allows you to open your car's 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 at the center of the fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.
If you want to check the battery voltage with extra caution, you can use a multimeter. Most modern key fobs have an voltmeter embedded in their casings, however you can also get an extra multimeter for a few dollars from most hardware stores. Generally speaking, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading lower than that could mean that the battery is in its last days and requires replacement immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear like little more than fancy high-tech items for convenience however, they're not indestructible. It's not uncommon for these remotes to fail after a certain time, especially when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there's an excessive amount of physical abuse involving it. In most cases it's simple to spot a problem and fix one with a remote fob. Usually all that's needed is an upgrade to the battery.
Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For example, they can be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When the button is pressed the fob transmits the radio signal using an identification code that can be recognized by a receiver located inside the car. Some fobs also have a button that can start the engine, which is especially handy during cold winter mornings or hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob reset by snapping it apart and checking whether they're not damaged or stuck. Key fobs aren't usually made to be removed however, the battery connector terminals on a key fob could get loose over time. If the buttons' contacts have been disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job is enough to put them back in place and allow the fob back to full function.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be damaged, misaligned, or out of alignment. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to repair car key fob on your own but can usually be addressed by an auto repair shop in your area with the right equipment and experience.
It's always an excellent idea to have a spare fob somewhere in the event that one you use regularly stops working. This can help prevent you from being stranded without your keys or needing to pay a significant amount of money to have your vehicle towed back 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 uncommon for a keyfob's cap to get wet. It could be the result of an in-ground pool, a downpour, or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronics inside, leading to a host of malfunctions. The good part is that the key fob can usually be kept from death's edge by thoroughly drying it out and executing a few simple steps.
First, verify whether the buttons function 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 the remote.
Examine the case to ensure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Utilize tweezers to remove the case and remove the battery however, do not remove the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob programmed to your vehicle, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll need visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to reprogram it.
After you have replaced and removed your battery, it's recommended to dry the key fob by putting it in the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will avoid future problems with moisture and will make your key fob more durable.
Finally, if the fob is not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular make and model of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob to match your vehicle and hopefully restore its full functionality.
If everything 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 are similar to the factory fob but much cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle by following 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 reprogrammed within a matter of minutes at home.
Check the Connections
Your key fob might stop working even though it's programmed for your vehicle. This could be due a variety of reasons, including damaged battery terminal buttons or contacts. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by performing basic maintenance.
You should first check that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If it can't then there could be an issue with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, you can try replacing the batteries in your backup remote.
It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracked solder joints. When you're done you can replace the battery and reassemble the key fob.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test out its connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. From there, you'll be in a position to pry apart the two pieces of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative side facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, put it back together and try again.
If this doesn't solve the issue, you might have a larger issue. In this instance, you will need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that specializes in the make of your vehicle. They can determine the problem using a radio-frequency tester, which is a device that can determine whether your key fob sends signals to the car's computer.
Hopefully, this guide has been useful for anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!