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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may wear out over time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to function. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and you need to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs 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 is worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

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

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't functioning or require to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which 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, then it may be that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.





If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. car key fob repair service of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If click here to read 're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs take many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.