Solutions To Problems With Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside the car key fob to get worn out. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can 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 could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and you need to turn on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little 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 has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore function to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection 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 the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
site -Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram the keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.