How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to degrade. It is quite simple to change out a battery, although it is essential to make sure 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 require. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may 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. For example, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a long press to function. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove repair car key near me and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. auto key repair near me can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will 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. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
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 made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it working again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it entirely.