10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work then you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right kind. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear 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 remote.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.

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

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, remote the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all it takes to restore a non-working key fob repairs near me fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your repair car key because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.