How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
emergency car key repair inside the key fob could be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be press extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's required to return keys that are not in 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 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 handy enough to open a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse using 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 will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.