How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to degrade. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of 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're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. car key repair near me G28 of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.
