9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock and key repair near me the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote mobile key repair near me malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob could 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 your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also important to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote key keyless entry repair (on the main page). If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and need to start your car key repair service. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place could bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is working properly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key repair car fob is sending an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it entirely.