10 Quick Tips On Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. key fob repair near me could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and have to turn on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and tools you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. key repair near me for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make car remote key repair to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If, for instance, 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 on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
If 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. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're able to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked if a hole is drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not 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 sends a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.