How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a hard press for them to function. key repair near me can be very frustrating especially if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you have in the house.
First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.
If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it entirely.