How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your Key Repair fob does not work then 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 can lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the house.

First, verify that the batteries are properly installed and key repair that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to working.

If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, but they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them, or if a car key repairs near me door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.