9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair

how to repair broken car key to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is fairly easy to replace the battery, however 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 require. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button firing when pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key repair fob stop working or require a very long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your Remote Key repair might be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or when a door handle for a car key repair company or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're handy enough to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob to get it up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it all over again.