How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes of car keys repair near me remote key fob repair near me failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery inside a key fob repairs near me fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote key repair; https://heatadvice44.werite.net/, apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and need to switch on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this problem. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to open up the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

key repair service fobs take lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob repair service fob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.