A Productive Rant About 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 be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery inside a key fob can wear out over time. It is relatively easy to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a long press to work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. 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 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 your fob, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty.  remote car key repair g28carkeys.co.uk  broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons might not function properly or 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 functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is working correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it completely.