How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working A few easy steps can fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you use the correct type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there could be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them can restore function to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. key fob repairs can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering car key fob repair near me and buttons back in place is usually all that's needed to return keys that are not in functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're handy enough to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not sure with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.