How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock key repair near me and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a car key fob to wear out. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken for lock key repair near me instance it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to work. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and have to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the home.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications 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 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 it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is useful or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, How to repair car key Fob the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's required to return keys that are not in functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is working properly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, lock key repair near me go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it entirely.