Is Your Company Responsible For An Remote Key Repair Budget? 12 Ways To Spend Your Money How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.


If the backup can lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to make sure that you select the correct one and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you might already have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. 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. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering mobile car key repair near me into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

car key repair service are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.