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 some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem, there may be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. key car repair is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to function. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to switch on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little time and tools you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent 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 can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.