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 fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car key immobiliser repair doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The majority of repair car keys remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your car remote key repair shop near me. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you have in the home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of this is helpful or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-remote key repair transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or repair car key remote door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, Keyless Entry Repair you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.