The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key malfunctions for repair car keys near me remotes are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for Remote Key Repair the battery inside the key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important to select the right kind. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary 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 dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, remote key repair any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote key repair fobs they are contained in, but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.