How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in the car key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also essential to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. 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 device.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For mobile key repair near me that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can bring back function to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs take many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it completely.