How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, Repair keys near me it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car keys repair near me remotes are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressing extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is helpful or if the button still does not respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car key fob repairs near me or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check 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 usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it all over again.