How The 10 Worst Remote Key Repair Errors Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues. Battery The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob. Buttons From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town 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 house. First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed. Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If key repair car is the case, connecting them back can restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob. If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life. If all of this doesn't help or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you. Circuitry Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's. If you are handy enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob back to working. Non-Remote transponder chips Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures. If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal. Programming Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or replacing car key repair near me does not work it may be necessary to replace it.