How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could be worn out over time. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and inspect the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of dirty boards. car fob repairs near me broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it entirely.