How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following just a few steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your 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 result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the home.
First, make sure 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 inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use car key repair shop near me -tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore function to the button. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressed extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.