10 Quick Tips About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock key repair near me and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote key repair shop near me (linked internet site) remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in the car key fob repairs near me key fob to degrade. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is essential to make sure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car keys repair near me. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them can restore function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors 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 take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car keys repairs near me. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.