How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The most common causes for car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important that you use the correct kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, ensure that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.
If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
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If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions 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 remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, you can go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.