How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup Remote key repair.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote key repairs are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, mobile Key repair Near me although it is essential to ensure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key repair near me fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very long press to work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to working.

If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. 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 electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob to get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.