How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your mobile car key repair, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes for repair car key remote Key Repair failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may wear out over time. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is important to ensure you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also important to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

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

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known 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 put new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's required to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto key repair locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it entirely.