How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car key button repair remotes are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a car key fob to get worn out. It is fairly easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and remote Control car key repairs re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and Remote Control Car Key Repairs if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote control car key repairs (http://www.stes.tyc.edu.tw/xoops/modules/profile/userinfo.php?uid=1232570) transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it up and running again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it all over again.