The Most Advanced Guide To Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could wear out over time. It is fairly easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and can be damaged by a variety of factors. car key fob repair near me may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.