How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, 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 fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you have in the house.

First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the Remote key Repair and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

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

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. 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 even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a repair car remote control key. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is working correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or Car Keys Repair Near Me hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends signals.

Programming

key repair shops near me fobs take lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.