How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car key fob repair service, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery inside the car key fob to wear out. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore functionality to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being press extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still doesn't respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you are handy 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. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals, car key repairs near me (https://pattern-wiki.win) and putting the button back into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote key fob repair chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them or in the event that a door handle of a repair car keys or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.