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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes for car key fob repair near me remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential to select the right type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped 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 deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board itself has become damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking 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 failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or vehicle low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto key repair locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it entirely.