The Comprehensive Guide To Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following just a few steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.
key fob repairs inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to replace the battery, however it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering key fob repairs in place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. 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 aren't working or require being pressed very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard push, then it may be that the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to 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 solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to open up a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.