9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes for mobile car key repair near me remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in a key fob for cars to get worn out. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob key repair.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable 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, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board has become damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-remote key fob repairs transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote key repair transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it completely.