How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following just a few steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to degrade. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is crucial to ensure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back into place 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 within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering repair car key and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to working.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you're able to open up a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for 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 it is possible to replace it.