How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car key repair cost, then it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The majority of car remote Key repair key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to degrade. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and have to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or Remote Key Repair other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can restore function to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob repairs fob have stopped functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this problem. Water and broken key repair near me cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return the key fob 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 be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or car remote key fob repair door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it all over again.