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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on the car key fob to get worn out. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is crucial to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a hard press for them to work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place may restore functionality to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
Finally, if any of the rubber buttons 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 on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain 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. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.
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, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.