How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup Remote key Repair.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most 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 in the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken key repair, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key repair car fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, remote key Repair carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back could bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which 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 the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it all over again.