How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote car key repair near me isn't functioning. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you have in the house.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressed extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in the remote key fob repairs control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's needed to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you are not comfortable opening the key lock repair near me fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your repair car remote control key (Click On this page) due to shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it entirely.