How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with some simple steps. 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, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is crucial to select the right kind. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons seem stuck or broken car key repair near me it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not common for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the house.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

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

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all it takes to restore a non-working mobile key repair (More Bonuses) fob to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're handy enough 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 test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you if the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, mobile Key repair which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.