How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob to get worn out. My Site is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from home and you need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the house.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place may restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still does not respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired 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 in the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all that's required to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.