13 Things You Should Know About Remote Key Repair That You Might Not Have Known
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, 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 primary remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key fob to degrade. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is essential to make sure that you choose the correct type; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're out of town 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 materials you might already have in the house.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. This can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.
car fob repairs near me -Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it all over again.