How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work then you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure you select the correct one and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the house.
First, check that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressed very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a hard push, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. broken key repair near me cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. 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 terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or if a car key lock Repair near me door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time non-remote key fob repair near me transponder chip failures could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key repair fob fails, it could be time to replace it all over again.