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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could wear out over time. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is crucial to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not uncommon however it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button firing remote key repairs when the button is pressed.
Check the battery get more info connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board itself has become damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all it takes to restore check here a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed more info case are more durable than 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 lawnmower runs over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to 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 requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your key fob and get it back working again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it may website be necessary to replace it.