15 Terms That Everyone Within The Key Fob Repair Industry Should Know

Remote Key Fob Repair

Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. However, as with any piece of modern technology it isn't without issues.

They are generally easy to fix. You can reset it by following the instructions in the manual of your owner.

Check the Battery

The remote control is powered by the battery that is in the key fob. It's a small and inexpensive component that needs to be replaced regularly to ensure the fob's functioning. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. The reasons could be physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. Regardless of the cause the key fob is unresponsive and is not responding, it's time to replace its battery.

Be sure to have the right size battery. Most modern key fobs use the standard CR2032 three-volt battery which is readily available in many stores. The majority of these batteries are marked with the size on one of the fob's edges. A quick search for the name of your vehicle's brand will help you identify the exact type of battery it takes.

Once you have the right battery then carefully open the key fob, and then remove the existing battery. Take a picture of the inside of the fob to ensure you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can save you from having to purchase a replacement fob because you made an error when putting it back together.

Some key fobs have a mechanical backup key known as an emergency blade. The key blade is inside the key fob, and it lets you unlock the driver's door of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. To access the key blade, you'll need to locate the notch located in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually a circle that's hidden by the fob's plastic casing.

If you're looking to test the battery's voltage with extra care, you can make use of a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can purchase a multimeter from most hardware shops for a few bucks. Generally, the battery should be reading 3.0 volts or greater. If it is below that level, it could indicate a battery in its final stages and should be replaced 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. Remotes can stop functioning after a period of time, particularly when they are frequently used or were subjected to physical abuse. Most of the time it is easy to identify the issue and fix it with the remote fob. Most of the time all that's needed is a new battery.

Many modern-day car key fobs feature numerous buttons for various functions like locking and unlocking doors and activating the panic button, as well as opening the trunk. When the button is pressed the fob transmits the radio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver inside the car. Some fobs include a button to start the car, which is useful during cold winter mornings as well as hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob can be reset by taking it apart and checking that they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on a key fob may get loose over time, even though they are not intended to be disassembled. If the contacts on the button have been disconnected from the circuit board and need to be soldered, a simple job is enough to get them back on track and allow the fob back to full function.

Additionally, if a fob was dropped or damaged in some other way, the buttons may be damaged or displaced from their alignment or misaligned. These issues are more difficult to fix on your own. However, a local auto shop can fix them with the right equipment and expertise.

Keep an extra key fob in a safe place, just in case the one you use frequently stops working. This can keep you from being left without your keys or having to pay a large amount of money to get the vehicle towing back to the dealer. Also, you should look over your car insurance policy or car club membership extended warranty coverage to see if it will cover the cost of replacing or programming a new fob.

Check the Casing

It's not unusual for keys to get wet, whether from a pool, a rainstorm or even your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronics inside, causing a host of malfunctions. It's good to know that you can save a key fob from dying by following a few easy steps and thoroughly drying it.

The first step is to check the buttons are working properly.  car remote key repair  involves taking out the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. If the buttons don't click back in or are stuck, it's time to replace the remote.

It is also important to inspect the case to ensure nothing is interfering with the function of the key fob. The case can be opened using tweezers, and then remove the battery. Don't remove the circuit board or antennas. These have electric current running through them, which keeps the key fob's programed to your vehicle, and when you break the circuits, you'll have to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program the device.

After you've removed and replaced the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob by placing it into an airtight bag that contains silica gel packets. This will help prevent any future issues with moisture and make your key fob more robust.

If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop, that specializes in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogram the key fob for your vehicle and hopefully return it to its full functionality.

If you're not able to find the replacement key fob offered by NAPA can be purchased online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. These do-it-yourself remotes function just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They can be easily paired to your vehicle with simple instructions. If you want to skip the expense and hassle of a visit to a dealer, NAPA offers several do-it-yourself replacements that can be re-programmed within a matter of minutes at home.

Check the Connections

Your key fob might not function, even though it's programmed for your vehicle. This could be due to various reasons, such as broken battery terminal contacts or buttons. You may be able solve the issue yourself by performing some basic maintenance.

You should first check whether your backup remote is capable of locking and unlocking the doors of your vehicle. If it does then there could be issues with your primary remote. If you are still unable to do it, try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.

It's a good idea to disassemble your key fob prior to replacing the battery and examining the circuit board. You'll want to ensure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that require to be repaired by re-soldering. After you're finished, you can replace the battery in your key fob and put it back together.

Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test the connection to your vehicle. Insert a flathead mini screwdriver in the notch at the bottom of the key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and gently remove the circuitboard. Carefully insert a new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's placed with the negative side facing downwards. After you've inserted the circuit board, you can rebuild the key fob and try again.

If this doesn't work for you, then there is a bigger problem. If this is the case, contact your dealer or a service shop that is specialized in your car's make. They can determine the problem by using a radio-frequency tester an instrument that determines the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the computer in your car.

This guide should be helpful for anyone who has issues with their car key fob. If you have any additional questions or issues, don't hesitate reach us for assistance. We'll be glad to help you get back on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.