How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to wear out. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also important to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. g28carkeys.co.uk can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it working again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it all over again.