How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, 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 primary remote isn't working. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in the car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important that you use the correct kind. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing repair car keys near me does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could bring back function to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically 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 they are contained in, but they can still be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it completely.