"The Key Fob Repair Awards: The Most Stunning, Funniest, And Most…

remote key fob repair (Diggerslist.com)

The majority of modern cars now have a remote key fob that can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. As with any high-tech piece equipment, there can be problems.

Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in your owner’s manual.

Check the Battery

The battery inside a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a tiny and affordable part that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure that the fob's function is maintained. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning properly. Damage to the physical, exposure to water or internal component malfunction could be the reason. If your key fob has stopped working then replace the battery.

First, ensure 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 marked with the size on one of the edges of the fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the specific type of battery it takes.

The fob must be opened carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob before you do this to make sure that you put it back together the right way. This simple trick will prevent you from purchasing another fob if you make an error when putting it back together.

It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an alternate mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. It's located inside the fob's key and allows you to open the driver's side door in case the remote control fails to function. To open the blade of the key, you must find the notch in the middle of the fob. The notch is usually a circle hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.

If you're looking to be extra cautious you can use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. Most modern key fobs come with an voltmeter in their casings, however you can also purchase a multimeter for just a couple of dollars at many hardware stores. In general the battery should be reading 3.0 volts and higher. If it reads lower than that, it could indicate that the battery is on its last legs and needs to be replaced immediately.

Check the Buttons

They may look like sophisticated, luxurious convenience items, but car remote key repair key fobs aren't indestructible. It's not uncommon for remotes to cease working after a certain time, especially if the vehicle is frequently used or if there's lots of physical abuse associated with it. Fortunately, the majority of times it's easy to diagnose and fix a problem with the remote key fob and replacing the battery is typically all that is required.

Modern car key fobs have multiple buttons that perform different functions. For instance they can lock and unlock the doors, activate the panic button and even open the trunk. When a button on the fob is hit, it transmits a radio code to a receiver inside the vehicle. Some fobs also include a button to start the engine, which is especially useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply taking it apart and checking that they are not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't made to be removed however, the battery connectors on a key fob could get loose over time. If the buttons' contacts are disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job can be enough to get them back into place and allow the fob back to its full functionality.

In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or displaced from their alignment or misaligned in any way. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to fix on your own, but can usually be addressed by an auto repair key fob shop in your area with the right equipment and experience.

Keep an extra key fob in an area that is secure in case the one you use most often stops working. You'll avoid being stuck in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your vehicle taken to the dealer. Also, you should check your insurance policy on your car, car key fob repair service club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine if it covers the cost of programming or replacing the new fob.

Check the Casing

It's not unusual for a keyfob to get wet. This can happen from an in-ground pool, a rainstorm, or even from your washing machine. The resulting moisture can wreak destruction to the electronic components inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's important to know that you can save a key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and thoroughly drying it.

First, verify whether the buttons function properly. This usually involves taking them out, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons don't click back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.

Check the case to ensure that nothing is interfering in the operation of the key fob. Remove the case using tweezers and remove the battery. Do not disassemble the antennas or circuit board. If you disrupt the circuits that keep your key fob programmed, you will need to visit an Interstate All Battery Center or dealer to reprogram it.

After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets or some other desiccating agent. This will help prevent future issues with moisture and will help the battery last longer.

If, after all this, the fob is not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your specific make and model of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob to match your particular vehicle, and hopefully restore its full functionality.

If nothing else works, you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or in your local NAPA auto key fob repair Parts shop. These do-it-yourself remotes look just like your factory fob, but are much more affordable and can be easily connected with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA offers a number of do-it yourself replacements that can be programmed within a matter of minutes.

Check the Connections

Your key fob may stop working even though it's programmed for your car. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. If this is the case, you might be in a position to fix it yourself by doing some basic maintenance.

It is important to first verify whether your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't, you may have an issue with your primary remote. If you still can't do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.

Before you replace the battery, it's a good idea to pull off your key fob and perform an examination of the circuit board. Make sure there are no cracks in the solder joints. After that, you can replace the battery and rebuild the key fob.

After you have replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, make sure you test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. From there, you'll be able to break the two pieces of your key fob, and gently remove the circuit board. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, ensuring that it is placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you have reinserted your board, you can reassemble your key fob.

If this doesn't work, there is a bigger problem. In this situation you'll have to contact your dealer or an independent service shop that specializes in the make of the car you own. They can pinpoint the issue with a radio frequency test which is a gadget that can determine if your key fob transmits an indication to the car's computer.

This guide is intended to be of assistance to anyone who is having issues with their car key fob. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be happy to help you get back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!