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 by following some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock key repair near me the doors of your car key repairs, it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The majority of car key and repair remote key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine 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 does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start 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, verify that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive painting is 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.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

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

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a Mobile car key repair or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to open a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it entirely.