How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car key fob repair service, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote key repair (find more information). If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not function or get 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

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a emergency car key repair door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote key fob repair transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits signals.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the car remote key repair near me's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.