How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and you need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, verify that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them could restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on 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. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to restore a non-working fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. https://mccracken-myrick-3.mdwrite.net/15-of-the-best-pinterest-boards-all-time-about-car-keys-repair-1718726540 or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.