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 just a few steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock key repair near me and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.

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 type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back can restore function to the button. The same procedure 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 aren't working or require being pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key repair fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using 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 whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

repair key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car Key lock repair near me due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it completely.