How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and key repair near me and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the automotive key repair fob for cars to degrade. It is simple to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right type. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car key Lock repair near me door handle. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key repair shop near me fob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it entirely.