How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there could be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.
First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button firing when the button is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If key fob repair near me to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.