How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However, it is important that you use the correct kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from home and you need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the home.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may bring back function to the button. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to working.
If none of this is useful or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to bring 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 in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
see post are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.