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 be sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car key lock repair near me remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to wear out. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote key fob repairs and rebuild its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not common for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the house.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.

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

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're able to open up your automotive key repair fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote control car Key repairs chip failures.

If you're able to open the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob repairs near me fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.