5 Laws That'll Help The Remote Key Repair Industry
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, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to get worn out. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is crucial to ensure 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 recommended to examine 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 may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating, especially when you are away from home and need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, ensure that click are charged correctly 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 signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible 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 does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.