How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock key repair near me and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car key fob repair service remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

From repeated use, key repair near me fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from home and have to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged 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's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-Remote Key Repair chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to open up the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.