How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most car remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to wear out. It is fairly easy to replace a battery, although it is important to make sure that you use the right type; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and replacing the solder, broken car key repair near me but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-remote car key repairs transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be broken car Key repair near me (Http://eng.cordeliashotel.com/bbs/board.php?bo_table=review&wr_id=1321497) by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob key repair near me to get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.