How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to get worn out. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take car remote key repair shop near me and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back could restore function to the button. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind a little 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 are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is functioning properly. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it all over again.