The Biggest Problem With Remote Key Repair And How To Fix It

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 a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote car key repair near me.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car key button repair doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to degrade. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you use the right 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 important to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not unusual to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and have to switch on your car key fob repair. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place could restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to working.

If none of this is useful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob repairs fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it entirely.