How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial to select the right kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not unusual to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the house.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For https://pastelink.net/ydl0d70m that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If https://squareblogs.net/climbcrate2/the-ultimate-glossary-for-terms-related-to-automotive-key-repair 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 sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between 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 restore a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it all over again.