The Worst Advice We've Heard About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob key Repair near me for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential to select the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem, there may be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, fob Key repair near me if the buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to disassemble the remote 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 uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to get them working. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and you 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, verify that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you are handy enough 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. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all that's required to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car key repair or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine if the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it all over again.