10 Quick Tips About Remote Key Repair

how to repair car key fob to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car keys repairs near me remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to change out a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and you need to start your car key fob repairs near me. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard press It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are 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 the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key repair shops near me fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.