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 make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential to select the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. car key circuit board repair could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from your home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, verify that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove mobile car key repair and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. You can usually do this 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 doesn't respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed 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 to get in and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to an exploded fuse.
If you're handy enough to open up the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have a radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it completely.