10 Signs To Watch For To Find A New Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could be worn out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak caustic 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. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, ensure that look what i found are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.
If you're able to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work, you may need to replace it.