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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 by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and key repair near me and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of car key and repair key fob (bookmarking.win) remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is essential to ensure you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken 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

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to turn on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little time and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them or if a car door key repair near me handle or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.