A Vibrant Rant About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. auto key repair is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is important to ensure you choose the correct type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance, 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 hard press for them to function. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and have to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you may already have around the house.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could restore functionality to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections within the fob.
Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate 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 with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it all over again.