How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons appear stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If key fob repair service is the case, connecting them back can restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to working.
If none of this is useful or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. 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 tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's needed to return keys that are not in working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it completely.