9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However, it is important to select the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also important to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken car key repair, for example it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to start your repair car key fob. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you may already have around the home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for indications 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 rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them can restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

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

If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the Remote Key Repair fobs that have them but they can be cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or repair car key door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it all over again.