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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can be worn out over time. repair car keys near me is fairly easy to replace the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hard push to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Utilizing broken key repair near me -tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place may restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
In the end, if 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 down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board has gone bad. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back 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, however they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it all over again.