How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working A few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. car key repair near me is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them may bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being press very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.