How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems. Battery The battery inside the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential to select the right type. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to 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 repeated use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home. First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed. Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob. If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. key fob repair can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life. If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method doesn't work for you. Circuitry Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also get 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 the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working. Non-Remote transponder chips Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to a blown fuse. If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending a signal. Programming Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.
key fob repair
