10 Quick Tips About Remote Key Repair
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 make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However key car repair is essential to select the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially when you are away from home and have to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be press very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to working.
If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method fails for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it entirely.