How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote control car key repairs.

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

Battery

The battery in the key fob may wear out over time. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to ensure you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other 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 key repairs apart and Fob Key Repair rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your repair Car keys near me to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote car key repair fobs, but they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends signals.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car 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 back up and running. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it all over again.