How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important to select the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.
First, make sure that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering click the following page into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board has gone bad. This can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. remote key fob repair is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.