How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is important to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.
In key fob repairs , if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of this is helpful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working condition.
look at this website -Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it completely.