How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery problems.
car key fob repair in the key fob may wear out over time. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to get them working. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent 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, soldering them back in place may restore function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it completely.