How to Fix a key fob repair Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car key repair near me doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote mobile key repair malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is important to make sure that you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your electronic car key repair near me to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or has conductive paint 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.
Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have a spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car key repair near me door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it all over again.