How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key repair remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the car key lock repair near me key fob to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your car key repair to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not uncommon, Keys Repair but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you have in the house.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them could bring back function to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be because the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.

Non-Remote Key Repair Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or mobile car key repair near me door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.