How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on the car key fob to wear out. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is important to make sure that you select the correct one and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not unusual to have buttons stop working, or to require a long push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back may bring back function to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. repair broken car key can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to working.
If none of this is helpful or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. car key remote repair near me damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, but they can be cracked if a hole is 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 determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you're not sure with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back working again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it all over again.