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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important to select the right kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is also essential to check the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you might already have in the house.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Utilizing car key fob repair -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 can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it completely.