How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working<br /><br />If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.<br /><br />If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery issues.<br /><br />Battery<br /><br />The battery inside a key fob can wear out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also important to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.<br /><br />Buttons<br /><br />Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the home.<br /><br />First, verify that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/leighton-buzzard-auto-locksmiths-near-me/">repair car key</a> for signs of rust or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when pressed.<br /><br />Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.<br /><br />If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressed very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.<br /><br />If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method fails for you.<br /><br />Circuitry<br /><br />If the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.<br /><br />If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.<br /><br />Non-Remote transponder chips<br /><br />Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.<br /><br />If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.<br /><br /><br /><br />Programming<br /><br />Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.<br /><br />