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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could be worn out over time. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however 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 the kind of battery you need. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. car key repair near me can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from home and need to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little effort and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are 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 should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have an radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.