What The 10 Most Worst Remote Key Repair Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in the car key fob to get worn out. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing nearby key repair shop , because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in 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 hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over 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 push It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry


Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote may 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 broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Recommended Online site 's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's needed to return keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.