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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is relatively easy to replace the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also important to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. If auto key repair are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the house.
First, check that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore function 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 stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If car key repair enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick 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 chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If car keys repairs near me 're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it working again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it all over again.