User description

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery


The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure you use the right type that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a long press to function. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and tools you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for visit the up coming website of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be press very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.