How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following just a few steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your repair car key fob, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could wear out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also crucial 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 issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to remove the remote key repair and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Through frequent use, ignition key repair near me fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few items you may already have around the home.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again If this is the case. You can apply the same procedure 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 aren't working or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. broken key repair and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's needed to return keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or repair car key door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. 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 inform you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the car keys repairs's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.