How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to degrade. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very long press to work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few materials you might already have in the home.
First, verify that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore functionality to the button. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you 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 re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. car remote key repair near me and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is working properly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an 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 being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.