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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to wear out. It is fairly easy to replace a battery, although it is important to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long press to get them working. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.
Also, be sure to check more info the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the case. The same process 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 require being pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should 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 the case that the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked website when a hole is made into them or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on blowing more info fuses.
If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store car key fob repairs near me and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the fob repair near me key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it completely.