9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote key repair (similar web page).
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be very 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 have in the home.
First, verify that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them may bring back function to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board itself has become damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob key repair available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or car key lock repair near me door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're not comfortable opening the key repair car fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it entirely.