How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is relatively easy to replace the battery, however it is crucial to ensure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and Remote Key repair that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't functioning or require to be pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote key repair could be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage 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 an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or if a car key remote repair near me door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and remote key Repair this could be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it entirely.