How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob does not work then you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote. If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery. Battery It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to replace the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're 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 may already have around the home. First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and inspect the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in 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 stop the button from firing when pressed. Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob. If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very long press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life. If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method fails for you. Circuitry Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board. If you're handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. key car repair 's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's required to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures. If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob sending a signal. Programming Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.
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