How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However key repair service near me is essential that you choose the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. repair keys near me 's recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you might already have in the home.
First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore function to the button. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressed very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is 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 not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning properly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it entirely.