How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could be worn out over time. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is important to make sure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. 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 replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to turn on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little effort and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

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

In the end, 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 the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board itself has gone bad. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and [Redirect-302] buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, but they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key repair, aviator-Games.Net, fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the car key repair near me's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back working again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it all over again.