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. repair car key is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on the key fob for cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is crucial 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 need. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
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 has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able 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. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's required to return keys that are not in working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.