How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is important to make sure that you use the right type; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing key fob repairs doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and materials you already have at home.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't functioning or require to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board called via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking 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 buttons to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to an exploded fuse.
If you're handy enough to open the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.