How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote isn't working. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. 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 unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and have to turn on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressing extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. car remote key repair near me can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob, and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stay 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 chip are more durable than remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.