How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car key immobiliser repair remote keys repair are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and have to start your Mobile Car Key Repair. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

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 the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. 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 don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable 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 repair near me fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.