How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car keys repair near me remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. 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 type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and you need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the house.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote key repair carefully and look over the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.

Also, remote Key Repair carefully check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open up your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. 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 button's back in place is usually all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and remote key repair utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.