How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not 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 key fob repairs doors it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on the mobile car key repair key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you have in the house.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is it is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still does not respond to a hard push, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all it takes to restore keys that are not in working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know if the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car remote key repair near me 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. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it entirely.