how to repair car key fob to Fix a Key Fob That isn’t Working
If your key fob does not work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it’s not your backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there’s a likely issue with the primary remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner’s manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn’t fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly if you’re out of town and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and tools you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector’s terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place could restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it’s ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn’t work for Remote Key repair you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote key Repair might be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via’s.
If you’re able to open your key fob, and you’re not afraid of making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it’s worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all that’s needed to return the key fob that is not working to functioning 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 into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you’re able to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you’re not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren’t impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car’s receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob isn’t working it could be the time to replace it entirely.