How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If find out this here are damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a long press to function. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from your home and need to switch on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.
First, ensure that car key repair near me are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button firing when pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place may restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is useful or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be the case that the circuit board is damaged. This can be fixed with a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.