How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock key repair near me and unlock your car key repairs near me door, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a car key fob to get worn out. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.

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 put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons 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 that contain them but they can be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.

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