10 Things You Learned From Kindergarden That Will Help You With Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is crucial to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools 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, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check key repair to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can be cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or 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. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it entirely.