24 Hours To Improving Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could be worn out over time. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged car remote key repair can be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. car remote key repair is often enough to resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take many abuses and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it completely.