10 Quick Tips About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup 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 are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential to select the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic 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 attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from home and need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you have in the home.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back could restore function to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to working.
If remote car key repair of this is useful or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board itself has become damaged. broken key repair can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.
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 then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can still be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. 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 can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.