Solutions To Problems With Remote Key Repair

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. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote is not working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery inside the car remote key repair Shop near me key fob to get worn out. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is important to make sure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to start your emergency car key repair. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that 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 is damaged or where to repair car key remote conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob in case this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made into them or if a car keys repair door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

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

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.