How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure 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 majority of car remote key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to get worn out. It is quite simple 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 for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other 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 vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. key fob repairs near me can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and tools you already have at home.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any 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 very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of 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 frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.
If you're able to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it up and running again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it completely.