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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most problems with car key repairs near me remote key fob repair near me keys are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob key repair could be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure you use the right type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a hard press for them to work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

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

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be press extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board has become damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote key fob repairs fobs, but they can be cracked when a hole is made in them, or in the event that a Door key repair near me handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.