How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on a car repair key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace the battery. However, it is important to select the right kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could 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 example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and need to start your car key repair company. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and some of the 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. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button firing when pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken car key repair near me case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic car key repair near me components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's required to return keys that are not in functioning condition.
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 lawnmower or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're able to open a sealed non-remote Key repair key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob key repair near me transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.