The Biggest Problem With Remote Key Repair, And How You Can Fix It
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 with just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to get them working. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed 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 have been damaged or worn out. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back can restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or require being press very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have a spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. her comment is here and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're able to open up your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. this website can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.