The No. 1 Question Everyone Working In Remote Key Repair Should Know How To Answer

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote. If nearby key repair shop is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues. Battery It is not unusual to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace a battery. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device. Buttons Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from your home and you need to turn on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home. First, check 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 look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when pressed. Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob. In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life. If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you. Circuitry If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board. If you are handy enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition. Non-Remote transponder chips The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled into 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 chip failures. If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is functioning correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know if the key fob is sending a signal. Programming Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it all over again.