What's The Ugly Reality About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is crucial to select the right type. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very long press to function. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the home.
First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be press very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If car keys repair of this is helpful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it entirely.