Three Reasons To Identify Why Your Remote Key Repair Isn't Performing (And What You Can Do To Fix It)
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 your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote is not working. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside the car key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard push, then it may be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. car key repair service can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it entirely.