The 10 Scariest Things About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
nearby key repair shop is not unusual to find a battery on the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is important to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the house.
First, verify that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's 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. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber 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 deteriorating and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible 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 on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed 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 handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it all over again.