How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
car key repair near me in the key fob may be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial to select the right kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the home.
First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive painting 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.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.