9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for key problems with your car key fob repair remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the Remote Key Repair apart and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when 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 function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be press very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

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. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.