How The 10 Worst Remote Key Repair Errors Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is important to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed 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. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button does not respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're able to open up a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.