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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 your backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your repair Car keys near me, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for repair Car keys near me cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is essential to make sure that you select the correct one and you can consult your owner's manual, or Car key lock repair near Me contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and Repair car keys near me the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressed very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it all over again.