How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If repair car key fob is able to lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may be worn out over time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.