How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car key fob repair service door, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car key Lock repair near me remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be very frustrating especially if you're out of town and need to start your car key repair near me. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or car key lock repair near me other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them can restore function to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't functioning or require to be pressing extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and car key lock Repair near me small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could 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 needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.