how to repair car key fob 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 with some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key repair company key fob to wear out. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is crucial to ensure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town 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 that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or car remote key repair door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough 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 with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.