How to Fix a Key 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. The first step is to make sure 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 main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car Key lock repair near me remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and have to turn on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when the button is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back can bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressed very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and Car key lock Repair near me will require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across 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 pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or may even remain 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 to functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Most of the time, non-remote key fob repair transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key repair near me fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.