How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial to select the right type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and tools you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is it is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If repair car key near me are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.