How to Fix a key fob repair Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car key remote repair near me doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, Key Repair fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little time and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back can bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or key repair require being pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder 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 the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it entirely.