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Remote Key Fob Repair Most modern vehicles now feature the remote key fob which can be used to lock, unlock or start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of high-tech equipment, it can sometimes experience issues. These are usually very easy to fix. You can reset it by following the steps in the owner's manual. Check the Battery The battery in a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small, inexpensive part that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functioning. However, in addition to the battery, there are other reasons why your key fob might not be functioning properly. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the reason. Whatever the reason when your key fob isn't responding and is not responding, it's time for a replacement battery. Ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032 which is easily found in a wide range of stores. The size of many of these batteries is engraved on the edges of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the exact kind of battery that it uses. Open your key fob carefully and take out the original battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can help you avoid having to buy a new fob simply because you made an error while putting it back together. It is also important to know that some key fobs include a backup mechanical key, referred to as an emergency blade. This is found inside the fob's key and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in case the remote control doesn't work. To access the key blade, you have to locate the notch located in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the fob's plastic casing. If you're looking to test the battery's voltage using more care, make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with a built-in voltmeter, but you can get a multimeter from most hardware shops for a few dollars. In general, the battery should be reading 3.0 Volts or higher. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery in its final stages and must be replaced immediately. Check the Buttons They may look like high-tech, fancy convenience items, but car key fobs aren't durable. Remotes can stop working after some time, particularly if they are used often or if they were subjected to physical abuse. Fortunately, a majority of the times, it's simple to identify and fix the issue with the remote key fob and changing the battery is often all that's needed. Modern car key fobs include several buttons that can perform various functions. For example they can unlock and lock the doors as well as 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 come with a button that will start the engine, which can be especially useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days. The buttons on a key fob reset by simply snapping it apart and checking that they're not broken or stuck. Key fobs aren't typically designed to be disassembled however the battery connector terminals on a key fob can become loose as time passes. If the button contacts have become disconnected from the circuit board, a simple solder job could be enough to get them back into place and restore the fob to full function. In addition, if the fob has been dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons might be damaged, out of alignment or otherwise misaligned. These problems are more difficult to fix on your own. However a local auto shop can fix them with the right equipment and expertise. It's always a good idea to keep an extra key somewhere in case one you use regularly stops working. you can try this out can keep you from being left without your keys or having to pay a lot of money to have the vehicle towed back to the dealer. Check your car insurance or car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine the cost of replacing a replacement key fob. Check the Casing It's not unusual for the key fob to become submerged, whether from a pool, storm or even your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction on the electronic components inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's good to know that you can save a key fob from death by following a couple of simple steps and drying it thoroughly. First, check whether the buttons function correctly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them, and reassembling them. If the buttons don't click back in or feel stuck, it's probably time to replace your remote. Examine the case to ensure that there isn't any obstruction to the operation of the key fob. Remove the case using tweezers, and then remove the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them, which keeps the key fob's programed to your vehicle, and if you disturb those circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it. After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's a good idea for you to dry the key fob out by placing it in a plastic bag containing silica gel packets. This will avoid any future issues with moisture and make your key fob more durable. Finally, if the fob is still not functioning properly, you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in your specific model and make of vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob for your specific vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality. If all else fails, 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 function just like the original fob, but are cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of replacements that can be programmed in minutes. Check the Connections Your key fob might cease to function even though it is still programmed for your car. This could be caused by various reasons, including malfunctioning contacts on the battery or buttons. If this is the case, you may be able to fix it yourself by doing some basic maintenance. The first thing to ensure is that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car's doors. If it does it, then you might have an issue with your primary remote. If you aren't able to, it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote. Before you replace the battery it's an excellent idea to take off your key fob and perform a visual examination of the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. After you've finished replacing the battery in your key fob and rebuild it. Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test the connection to your vehicle. Use a flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of the key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and gently remove the circuitboard. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing downwards. Once you have inserted the board and reassembled your key fob. If this doesn't work, there is a bigger problem. In this instance you'll need to call your dealer or an independent repair shop that is specialized in the specific model of your car. They can identify the issue with a radio-frequency analyzer, which is a device that can determine whether your key fob sends a signal to the computer in your car. I hope this guide was helpful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. If you have any additional questions or issues, don't hesitate ask us for help. We'll be happy to assist you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.