How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote. If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery. Battery The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a difficult press to get them to function. key fob repairs can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the home. First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is it is pressed. Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will 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. If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state. If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you. Circuitry The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's. If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little 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. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures. If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending signals. Programming Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.
key fob repairs
