How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is crucial to select the right kind. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place may bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place 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 can be cracked when a hole is made in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. car key repairs near me of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. 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 can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.