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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car keys repairs near me remotes are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could be worn out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote key fob repair car key remote near me (supplemental resources). If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you might already 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 examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is useful or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard press It could be that the circuit board is damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

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

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to open up the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

key fob repairs fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it entirely.