How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob repair near me fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes for car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and Remote Key repair rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not atypical, Remote Key Repair but it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from home and have to turn on your car key repairs. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all it takes to restore keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the Remote key Repair fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to open a key fob that is sealed 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, 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 sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.