How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the house.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore function to the button. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, but they can be cracked when a hole is made into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to open a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have a radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If, in electronic key repair near me that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it completely.