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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, check to make sure 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 common 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 easy to replace a battery. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort 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. Open the remote carefully 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 that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressed very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might 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 still doesn't respond to a firm press It could be that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have an extra in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to an exploded fuse.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. 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 tell you whether the key fob transmits a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it all over again.