16 Must-Follow Facebook Pages To Remote Key Repair-Related Businesses
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. 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 doors, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of car remote key failure 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, it is important that you use the correct type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also essential to check the battery compartment as 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. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the 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. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub car keying repair , as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test 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 utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.