How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, check to make sure lock and key repair near me 's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a hard press for them to work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
If key repair service near me of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.