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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is essential to ensure you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Through repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to work. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and you need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located 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 require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push It could be that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
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 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 into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're able to open a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.