How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, check 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 problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is fairly easy to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure you use the right type; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. car key repairs is not unusual to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality 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 the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be that the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.