How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote key repair car keys near me (learn here). The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery in the key repair shop near me fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the house.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can bring back function to the button. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're handy enough to remove your ignition key repair near me fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob repairs near me fob to functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is working correctly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.