Watkinsunderwood7477

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following just a few steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key fob to get worn out. discover this info here is simple to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long press to get them working. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the house.





First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them may restore function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can be fixed by 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

Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked if a hole is drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.