9 Things Your Parents Teach You 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 and unlock your repair car key doors it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car key and repair to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections within the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can 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 cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open up your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote key repair transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or mobile car key repair near me door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it all over again.