How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your Repair Car Keys Near Me, then it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob for cars to degrade. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from your home and you need to switch on your car key and repair. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button firing when it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a long press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have a spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy 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 some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for repair car keys near me a car or lawnmower runs over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have an radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your key fob repairs near me fob fails it is possible to replace it.