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 be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock key repair near me the doors of your car key repair, it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the car key fob to degrade. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and have to turn on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, lock Key repair near me carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button firing when pressed.

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

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressed very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. 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 you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote key fob repair near me fobs that contain them but they can still be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and Lock Key Repair Near Me aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.