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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 fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could wear out over time. It is simple to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right kind. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not 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 may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for nearby key repair shop of rust, or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged 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.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again If this is the case. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob to get it up and running again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.