How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote key Repair.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. Most problems with electronic car key repair near me remote keys result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long 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 malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the situation. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be press very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or when a door handle for a car key fob repairs near me or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating 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 key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it entirely.