How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it with just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and key repair near me and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is important to make sure that you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually 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 have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and examine 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 that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen over 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 you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. 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 circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key repair near me fob and don't mind a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you are 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 unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and keyless entry repairs can be damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car remote key repair near me because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.