10 Meetups About Remote Key Repair You Should Attend

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most car key lock repair near me remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in the car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out 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.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or car remote key repair shop near me door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine if the key lock repair near me fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key repairs near me fob and get it back up and running. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your automotive key repair fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it all over again.