How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can fix it. First, remote car key repair near me make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the Remote Car key Repair near me. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials 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. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to working.

If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is working correctly. If you're not sure with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the repair key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.