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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car key fob Repair near me doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you have in the house.

First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back can restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

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

If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method doesn't work for car key fob repair near me you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car keys repair. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.