How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car key remote repair near me doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to get worn out. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is essential to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key repair fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key repair fobs could wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you might already have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can bring back function to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob repair service fob aren't functioning 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 over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

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

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-remote control car key repairs Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.