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 be sure that it's not your backup remote Key repair.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The majority of car key fob repairs near me remote key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery in a key fob key repair near me can get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important to select the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also important to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and have to turn on your car remote key repair shop near me. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you may already have around the home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen 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 pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key repairs fob are working or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know if the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or repairing your repair key fob fails it is possible to replace it.