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 be taken to fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If mobile car key repair cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery in the car key fob to wear out. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but 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 find out the kind of battery you require. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the home.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to working.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved 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 to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.
If you're skilled 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, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails, you may need to replace it.