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 with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside the car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around 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 look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is it is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
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 has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open up your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in functioning 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 is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If central locking key repair to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it working again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it entirely.