How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your repair car remote control key doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However, it is important to select the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote key repairs 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 cease functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your mobile car key repair. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you might already have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button firing when pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote car key repairs may be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can still be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or Car Key Fob Repair Near Me door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode 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 key fob sends signals.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your repair car keys because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.