13 Things You Should Know About Remote Key Repair That You Might Never Have Known
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important that you choose the right type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If key repair are damaged or stuck for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not common for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen 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, then it may be that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have an extra in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining 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 a non-working key fob to working condition.
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 into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to remove a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.