Remote Key Fob Repair

Most modern vehicles now feature remote keys that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of high-tech equipment it isn't without issues.

(Image: https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/308785165_499195788347328_5859105632268553197_nlow.jpg)They are generally easy to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in your owner’s manual.

Check the Battery

The remote control is powered by the battery in the key fob. It's a small and inexpensive part that should be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functionality. There are a variety of reasons your key fob might not be working besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, water exposure, or internal component failure. If your key fob's battery has stopped working then replace the battery.

Make sure you 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. The size of the majority of these batteries is stamped on the edge of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand should help you find the exact type of battery you need.

The fob must be opened carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from having to purchase an entirely new fob because you made a mistake when making it back together.

Some key fobs also have an electronic backup key, also known as an emergency car key repair blade. This key blade is located inside the key fob, and allows you to unlock the door of the driver's seat of your car in the event that the remote control fails. To open the blade of the key, you must locate the notch that lies in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.

If you want to check the battery voltage with extra care, you can use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have an integrated voltmeter, however you can purchase a multimeter in most hardware shops for a few bucks. In general the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. If it reads lower than that, it could mean that the battery is on its last legs and needs to be replaced immediately.

Check the Buttons

They may appear to be sophisticated, luxurious convenience items, but keys for cars aren't impervious to destruction. It's not uncommon for remote devices to stop working after a time, particularly when the vehicle is frequently used or if there's a lot of physical abuse involving it. In most cases it is easy to identify an issue and fix it with the remote fob. Most of the time, all that is needed is a new battery.

The majority of modern car key fob repair service key fobs have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking doors, activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed it transmits a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs have a button to start the car, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings and hot summer days.

Typically, the buttons on a key fob can be reset simply by snapping the device apart and then checking to ensure they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals of a key fob may get loose over time, despite the fact that they aren't designed to be removed. Soldering can be used to reconnect the button contacts to the circuit board in case they've been cut off. This will restore the fob's functionality.

In addition, if a fob was damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons may be damaged, out of alignment or misaligned in any way. These kinds of issues are usually more difficult to solve on your own, but they can be resolved by a local auto shop with the proper tools and experience.

Keep a spare key fob in a safe location, just in the event that the one you are using is not working as often. This can help prevent you from being stranded without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to have your vehicle towed back to the dealer. You should also check your car insurance policy or car club membership extended warranty coverage to determine whether it will cover the cost of replacing or programming an entirely new fob.

Check the Casing

It's not common for the key fob to become wet, be it from a pool, storm or even your washing machine. The resultant moisture can cause destruction on the electronics inside, causing many malfunctions. The good part is that keys can typically be saved from the brink of death by drying it thoroughly and executing a few simple steps.

First, verify that the buttons still work correctly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons are stuck or don't appear to be able to open, it could be time to replace your remote.

It is also important to inspect the case to make sure there is nothing that could be affecting the function of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and take out the battery. Don't remove the antennas or circuit board. They have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob's programming to your car, and when you break the circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.

After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's recommended 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 the battery last longer.

If the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your particular make and model of vehicle. They can re-program the key fob for your vehicle, and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.

If all else fails If all else fails, you can buy a replacement keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes look just like the original key fob, however, they are more affordable and can be easily paired with your vehicle by following simple instructions. If you're looking to avoid the expense and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed in a matter of minutes at your home.

Check the Connections

Sometimes, your key fob will cease to function - even though it's still connected to your vehicle. This could be due various reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be able to fix it yourself by carrying out some basic maintenance.

The first thing you need to ensure is that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't it, then you might have issues with your primary remote control car key repairs. If you can't, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote control car key repairs.

It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and then inspect the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that need to be re-soldering. Once you're done replacing the battery on your key fob and rebuild it.

After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, test the connection to your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and remove the circuitboard gently. Be careful when inserting a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's inserted with the negative side facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board and reassembled your key fob.

If this doesn't resolve the issue, you could have a larger problem. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a repair shop that specializes in the make of your vehicle. They can diagnose the problem by using a radio frequency tester which is a gadget that determines whether or not your key fob transmits an indication to your car's computer.

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