The 9 Things 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 then you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car key lock repair near me doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most car key repair near me remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key lock repair near me key fob to wear out. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential that you use the correct type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have a spare 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 function or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making a 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. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote Key repair chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them, or if a car keys repairs door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

key repair shops near me fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.