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 be sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.
First, verify that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. repair broken car key can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
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 unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.
