How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car key repair cost doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car key remote repair remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could wear out over time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is important to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote auto key repair repair [here.] and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and have 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 have in the home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over 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 are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again 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 any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board itself 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 does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob, and you don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto key repair near me locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.