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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

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

Battery

The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a hard push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the home.

First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. car key fob repair near me can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.