How The 10 Worst Remote Key Repair Errors Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure 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 primary remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you have in the house.
First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the case. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits a signal.
Programming
car key fob repair are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.