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 by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to 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 issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can wear out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important to select the right type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a hard press for them to work. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering car remote key repair into place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. car key fob repair or main dealer, can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.