How to Fix a Key Fob That isn’t Working

If your key fob isn’t working There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to be sure it’s not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there’s a likely issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in the car key fob to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can check your owner’s guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It’s also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, Key Repair fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a long press to work. This can be very frustrating especially when you’re away from home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you have in the home.

First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote key repair near me and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back into place can restore the button’s functionality if this is the case. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren’t working or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via’s.

If you’re handy enough to remove your key fob and aren’t afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. It’s also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car keys repair near me door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you’re not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key repairs fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren’t impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn’t work it may be time to replace it all over again.