From All Over The Web From The Web: 20 Awesome Infographics About Key Fob Repair

Remote Key Fob Repair

Modern vehicles come with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, or start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there are problems.

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 of the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. It's a tiny and affordable 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 working besides the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, exposure to water or internal component failure. Whatever the cause the key fob is unresponsive it's time for a replacement battery.

First, make sure you have the right size battery. Nearly all modern key fobs use the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit that is easily accessible at a variety of stores. The majority of these batteries are engraved with the size on one of the edges of the fob. 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 existing battery. Photograph the inside of the fob before you do so to ensure you put it back together the right way. This simple action can help you avoid having to buy a new fob simply because you made an error when putting it back together.

Certain key fobs also come with a mechanical backup key called an emergency blade. It's located inside the fob's key and allows you to access your car's driver's door in the event that your remote control isn't working. To access the key blade, you need to locate the notch at the center of your fob. The notch is usually a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.

If you're looking to be extra vigilant, you can utilize a multimeter for checking the voltage of the battery. The majority of modern key fobs have a built-in voltmeter, but you can get a multimeter in the majority of hardware stores for a few bucks. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or more. A reading lower than that could mean that the battery is on its last legs and should be replaced immediately.

Check the Buttons

Key fobs for cars may appear to be nothing more than modern, high-tech gadgets, but they aren't indestructible. It isn't unusual for these remotes to fail after a time, particularly when the vehicle is being frequently used or if there is an excessive amount of physical abuse associated with it. In most cases, it's easy to diagnose an issue and fix it by using the remote fob. Most of the time all that's needed is a new battery.

Many modern-day car keys have multiple buttons for different functions, such as locking and unlocking doors, 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. Some fobs have buttons to start the car, which is useful during cold winter mornings and hot summer days.

Typically, the buttons of a key fob can be reset by snapping the device in two and ensuring they aren't broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can get loose over time, despite the fact that they are not intended to be removed. Soldering can be used to connect the button contacts to the circuit board if they have been disconnected. This will allow the fob to function again.

In addition, if the fob was damaged or dropped in any other way, the buttons may be damaged or out of alignment, or misaligned. These issues are more difficult to repair by yourself. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right tools and experience.

It's always recommended to keep an extra key somewhere in case one that you frequently use fails to function. This can keep you from being left without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to get the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Check your car insurance, car club membership, or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing the key fob.

Check the Casing

It's not uncommon for the key fob to become wet, whether from a pool, a rainstorm, or even your washing machine. The moisture that results can trigger a myriad of malfunctions in the electronic. It's a good idea to be aware that you can save a key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and drying it thoroughly.

The first step is to make sure the buttons are functioning properly. This usually involves removing and cleaning the buttons. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace your remote.

Examine the case to make sure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers and remove the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. If you damage the circuits that keep your key fob's programmed, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.

After you've replaced and removed the battery it's a good idea to dry the fob by placing it in a plastic bag with silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future moisture issues and make the battery last longer.

Finally, if the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your particular type of vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully restore it to its full functionality.

If all else fails then you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes are similar to the factory key fob, but more affordable. They are easily paired to your vehicle using simple instructions. If you want to skip the high cost and hassle of a trip to the dealership, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be programmed in minutes at home.

Check the Connections

Your key fob may not function, even though it's programmed for your car. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by performing some 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 it, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If not, then it's time to try replacing the battery in your backup remote.

It's a great idea disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and then inspect the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracked solder joints. When you're done, you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.

Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, you're now ready to test out its connection with your vehicle. Put a flathead mini screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. Then, you can break the two halves of your key fob and then gently remove the circuit board. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the negative side facing downwards. Once  you can try this out 've reinserted the circuit board, you are able to rebuild the key fob and try again.

If this doesn't work for you, then there is a bigger problem. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a repair shop that is specialized in the make of your vehicle. They can pinpoint the issue with a radio frequency test that is a device that can determine if your key fob transmits an indication to the computer in your car.

This guide should be helpful to anyone having problems with their car key fob. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask us for help. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.