13 Things About Remote Key Repair You May Not Have Known
How to Fix key fob repair That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the house.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make keys repair to inspect the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a hard push It could be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the 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. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.