How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out batteries, but it is important to ensure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. 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 issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and materials you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take central locking key repair and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.
If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it entirely.