12 Companies Leading The Way In Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock key repair near me and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key button repair key fob to wear out. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is important to ensure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're 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 some of the materials you have in the house.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn 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 the button is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function 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 on the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote key repairs chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional Auto Key Fob Repair locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.