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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. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, 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
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little effort and tools you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can bring back function to the button. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. car key fob repair of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main can reprogram the key fob and get it back working again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.