how to repair car key fob to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the house.
First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals for Fob Key Repair loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and repair require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car remote key repair shop near me door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your mobile car key repair near me due how to repair car key fob shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it completely.