How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. car keys repairs near me of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to get worn out. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential to select the right kind. car key and repair can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing car keys repairs near me does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and you need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you might already have in the house.
First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating 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 all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board has become damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.
