How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote is not working. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is simple to replace batteries. However key fob repairs near me is crucial that you use the correct type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very long press to function. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it completely.