The Worst Advice We've Been Given About 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 unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a car key fob to get worn out. It is simple to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right kind. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them can bring back function to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.

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 put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If  broken car key repair near me g28carkeys  enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.