The 10 Most Dismal Remote Key Repair Failures Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could be worn out over time. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is important to make sure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing read on does not fix the problem, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the house.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.
Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back 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. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're able to open up your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're handy enough to open a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can 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, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.