9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car key fob repairs doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob repairs near me fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may bring back function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key (check out this one from Google) fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled into them or if a car door key repair near me handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.