How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the house.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.

If https://mcgee-rohde.hubstack.net/key-repair-tips-from-the-top-in-the-industry of this is helpful or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob in case this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's required to return keys that are not in functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If https://rentry.co/wpevhed3 're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.