The Most Significant Issue With Remote Key Repair And How To Fix It
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The most common causes for car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob for cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out batteries, but it is essential to ensure you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very long press to work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're 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 a few items you may already have around the home.
First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and inspect the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button 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 may bring back function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If mobile key repair near me of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.
