How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working A few easy steps can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace the battery. However, key repairs is important to select the right kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little effort and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.