How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to be 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 primary remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key repair [My Page] key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is fairly easy to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure that you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote key fob repairs. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and Remote Key Repair need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the home.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly 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 are worn or damaged. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them can restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

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

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove 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 looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often 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 can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car key repair cost or lawnmower runs over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits signals.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.