How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key car repair fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and key repair near me and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a key fob for cars to get worn out. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote key repair. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few materials you might already have in the house.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. You can follow 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 press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote key fob repair fobs. However, 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. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the mobile key fob repair fob is sending a signal.

Programming

broken key repair fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.