How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote is not working. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is important to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes 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 professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and have to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.
First, verify that key fob repair near me are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them could bring back function to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to working.
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 has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that 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 function or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this problem. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. 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 some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to an exploded fuse.
If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.