How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, check 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 primary remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery inside a mobile key repair Near me fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial to select the right type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote key repair apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for mobile key repair Near me them to function. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Even broken car key repair near me or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore function to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressing 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 over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board called via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. 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 transmits an RF 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 main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.