How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is important to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework 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. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them may restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't 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. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If car remote key repair near me of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. This can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it all over again.