How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The majority of repair car Keys remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also important to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not common for buttons to stop functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to start your car key button repair. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you have in the house.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality if this is the case. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressed extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board itself has become damaged. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and repair car keys broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or may even remain 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 car key repair near me Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.