The Main Issue With Remote Key Repair And How To Fix It

How to Fix a key car repair Fob That isn't Working

If your key car repair fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. 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 doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a key fob for cars to degrade. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important to select the right type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

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 cases and water are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

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 examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's required to return keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're not confident opening the key repair service fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

key repairs fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your Mobile key fob repair fob to get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it all over again.