How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with 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 door, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is simple to replace the battery. However ignition key repair near me is essential that you use the correct kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a long press to function. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little effort and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to working.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.