How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work then you can fix it with just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. car key repair near me is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard push to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you might already have in the house.
First, verify that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can follow the same procedure 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 aren't working or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked if a hole is drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer, can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.