How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your automotive key repair fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car key repair cost doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could wear out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are broken key repair near me or stuck, for example it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote key fob repairs carefully and look over the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button firing when the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for Full Write-up loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will 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 could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however 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 plows over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key repair service fob sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car key repair shop near me's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.