How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote. If car key fob repair is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery. Battery The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and have to switch on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home. First, verify that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed. Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back could restore function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob. If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life. If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you. Circuitry If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's. If you are handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob back to working. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse. If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal. Programming Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it up and running again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.
car key fob repair
