The Most Negative Advice We've Ever Been Given About Remote Key Repair
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 by following a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes for key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is essential to select the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and have to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. key repair shop near me can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. This can be fixed with a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all that's required to return keys that are not in working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it completely.