How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct type. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm 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. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the house.
First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open key fob repairs near me and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push, then it may be that the circuit board itself has become damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it entirely.