How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
car key fob repair near me in the key fob could wear out over time. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place may restore functionality to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be press very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board has become damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being 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 chips failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is functioning correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.