How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, check to make 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 working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
emergency car key repair may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to function. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have 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 it is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be press very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.