How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and Remote Control Car Key Repairs unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to wear out. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure that you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote Control car key repairs. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and car Remote Key repair Shop near me stop the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is useful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. 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 button's back into place is typically all it takes to restore the key fob key repair near me that is not working to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

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

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it entirely.