5 Laws That Can Help The Remote Key Repair Industry

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car Key lock repair near me doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is important to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote key repairs and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key repair shops near me fob.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. It is not common for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your repair car key remote. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will 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 could be that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring 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 replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.