How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in the car key fob to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out batteries, but it is crucial to ensure you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and you need to turn on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and materials you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check broken car key repair to ensure an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push, then it may be that the circuit board has become damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. key repair near me for dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're handy enough to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it entirely.