How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If https://writeablog.net/maplerose23/how-to-tell-if-youre-in-the-right-position-for-keys-repair can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. https://articlescad.com/a-good-rant-about-car-keys-repair-474697.html of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them may bring back function to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, but they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends signals.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it entirely.