We've Had Enough! 15 Things About Remote Key Repair We're Tired Of Hearing
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to degrade. It is simple to replace the battery. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons seem 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 device.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very hard press for them to work. This can be very frustrating 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 just a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.
First, verify that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back could bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. Going On this page can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.