How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a ignition key repair Near me fob for cars to degrade. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from home and you need to start your car key repairs. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being pressed extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still does not respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have a spare in case it does not 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 thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can take off 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, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits signals.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your electronic car key repair near me due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and Ignition Key repair Near me running again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.