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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 fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also essential to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem 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 device.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and you need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you have in the home.

First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. 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 you press it.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the case. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. car key repair service is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.

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 cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have an radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.