How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could wear out over time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very long press to function. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the house.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use relevant web page -tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful or if the button still 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 issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.
If visit the following page are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob back 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 when a hole is made in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.