How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and Mobile Key Fob Repair unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key repair key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob for cars to degrade. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car key repair service. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could restore function to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have another 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 work or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're able to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear 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're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the automotive key repair fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.