How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock key repair near me (please click the following post) the doors of your car key remote repair near me, then it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on the car key fob repairs near me key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is important to ensure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and have to switch on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them could restore function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's required to return keys that are not in working order.

Non-remote key fob repairs Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or car key button repair door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it completely.