A Proficient Rant Concerning Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential to select the right kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a long press to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and you need to switch on your car key fob repairs. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

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

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 is failing. This can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control may 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 can let water and keyless entry repair other debris into the circuit board, keyless Entry repair which can cause it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a repair car key fob. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob and get it up and running again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.