How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the case. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a firm press It could be because the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board called via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. key fob repairs near me of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob and get it up and running again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.