A Productive Rant About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board called via's.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. key fob repair near me of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.