How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your ignition key repair near me fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your repair car key fob door, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a car key fob to get worn out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key repair fob have stopped working or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If all of this doesn't help or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board is damaged. This can be fixed with 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 keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken key repair near me case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

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

Programming

key fob repairs fobs take lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.