How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a car key fob to get worn out. It is quite simple to change out batteries, but it is essential to make sure that you use the right type; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote key repair - http://promarket.in.Ua/user/cellarpike80/ -. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key repairs near me fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to switch on your car keys repair near me. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very long press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

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

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's required to return keys repair near me that are not in working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote car key repairs chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.