How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you use the correct type. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. click the following page '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 batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to function. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs take many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it completely.