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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 just a few steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

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

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key repair car fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and have to start your mobile car key repair near me. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust 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, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause 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're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all that's required to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote key fob repair transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. 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 utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.