How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, 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 is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not common for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote 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 the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them can bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to working.
If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board called via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If car key repair near me 're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob and get it up and running again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.