How to Fix a key repair car 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. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and key repair near me and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob could wear out over time. It is quite simple to change out a battery, although it is crucial to ensure you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you may already have around the house.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place could bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being pressed very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy 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 don't mind some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder 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 might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote key fob repair near me transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're handy enough to open up the sealed automotive key repair fob and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.