How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob repair service fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup Remote Key Repair.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most repair car keys near me remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the house.

First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can apply the same method 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 aren't working or require a long press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil 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 pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're handy enough to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.