How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. lock and key repair near me 's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. key fob repair of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it completely.
