20 Myths About Key Fob Repair: Busted

Remote Key Fob repair car key remote

Modern vehicles are equipped with remote controls that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle. But, like all pieces of modern technology it is not without its own issues.

Most of the time, these issues are simple to fix. It can be as simple as resetting it which you should be able to do by following the instructions for resetting in your owner's manual.

Check the Battery

The battery of the fob that powers it is responsible for the remote control function. It's a small, inexpensive part that should be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functionality. But, aside from the battery, there could be other reasons why your key fob isn't working. Physical damage, water exposure or internal component failure could be the cause. Whatever the cause the key fob isn't responding, it's time to replace its battery.

First, ensure you have the correct size battery. Most modern key fobs are powered by a three-volt CR2032, which is easily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is printed on the edges of the key fob. You can find the type of battery your vehicle requires by searching for the brand name.

Once you have the proper battery, carefully open your key fob and remove its existing battery. Take a photo of the inside of your fob to ensure you put it back together correctly. This simple trick will prevent you from buying another fob because you made an error when putting it back together.

It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This is located within the fob's key and allows you to open your car's driver's side door in the event that the remote control car key repairs control fails to function. To get to the blade of the key, find the notch in the middle of your fob. The notch is usually an oval shape that is hidden by the plastic casing of the fob.

If you'd like to test the battery voltage with extra caution, you can use the multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs have built-in voltmeters, but you can buy a multimeter in most hardware shops for a few bucks. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or more. If it reads lower than that, it could indicate that the battery is in its last days and needs to be replaced immediately.

Check the Buttons

They might look like modern, high-tech items of convenience, but mobile Car key repair key fobs are not impervious to destruction. They can cease functioning after a period of time, especially when they are frequently used or if they have been subjected to physical abuse. Most of the time it's simple to spot a problem and fix one by using a remote fob. Most of the time all that's needed is an upgrade to the battery.

The majority of modern car keys have numerous buttons for various functions including locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When you press a button the fob sends out an audio signal using a code that is recognized by a receiver in the car. Certain fobs come with a button to start the car, which is particularly useful during cold winter mornings and hot summer days.

The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply taking it apart and checking that they're not broken or stuck. The battery connector terminals on the key fob can be loose over time, even though they aren't intended to be removed. 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 return the fob to full function.

In addition, if the fob has been damaged or dropped in some other way, the buttons might be broken or out of alignment, or misaligned. These kinds of issues are generally more difficult to fix on your own, however, they can be fixed by a local auto shop with the right tools and expertise.

It's always a good idea to keep a spare fob somewhere in the event that one that you frequently use fails to function. You'll be able to avoid being in the in the middle of nowhere with no keys, or paying an enormous amount to have the car towed to the dealer. Also, you should look over your insurance policy on your car or car club membership extended warranty coverage to determine if it covers the cost of replacing or programming the new fob.

Check the Casing

It's not uncommon for a keyfob to become wet. This can happen from an in-ground pool, a downpour or even from your washing machine. The resulting water can play havoc with the electronics inside, causing numerous malfunctions. The good thing is that a key fob can often be kept from the brink of death by drying it thoroughly and following a few simple steps.

First, verify whether the buttons function properly. This usually involves removing the buttons, cleaning them and reassembling them. buttons. If the buttons don't pop 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 functioning of the key fob. Open the case with tweezers and remove the battery. Don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. These batteries have electric current flowing through them that keeps the key fob programmed to your vehicle, and should you disrupt these circuits, you'll have 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 to dry out the fob by putting it in a plastic bag with silica gel or other desiccating agent. This will prevent any future issues with moisture and make your key fob more durable.

Finally, if the fob is not working properly, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in your specific make and model of vehicle. They will be able to reprogram the key fob to your vehicle and hopefully restore the function to its original state.

If nothing else works then you can purchase an alternative keyfob online or at your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These do-it yourself remotes are just like the factory key fob, but cheaper. They are easily paired to your vehicle by following simple instructions. NAPA offers a variety of do-it yourself replacements that you can program in a matter of minutes.

Check the Connections

Your key fob may stop working even though it's programmed to work for your vehicle. It could be due to many reasons, including broken battery terminal buttons or contacts. It is possible to solve the issue yourself by performing a simple maintenance.

It is important to first verify that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it does, you may have a problem in your main remote. If you're still having trouble doing it, you can try replacing the batteries in the backup remote.

Before replacing the battery it's an excellent idea to take off the key fob and do an examination of the circuit board. Make sure there aren't any cracks in the solder joints. Once you're done you can replace the battery in your key fob and reassemble it.

Once you've replaced the battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test the connection with your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. You can then break the two halves of your key fob and remove the circuitboard gently. Insert a new CR2032 3V battery with the negative end facing down. After you've inserted the circuit board, rebuild the key fob and try again.

If this doesn't resolve the problem, you may have a bigger issue. In this instance, you should call your dealer or a repair car key fob shop that specializes in the car's model. They can determine the problem by using a radio-frequency tester which is a device that can determine the frequency at which your key fob transmits signals to the car's computer.

Hopefully, this guide has been useful to anyone having trouble with their vehicle's key fob. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We'll be glad to assist you getting back on the road in Deptford or Cherry Hill!