The 10 Scariest Things About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is essential to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment carefully because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to 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 dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very hard press to work, it is likely that 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 over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the 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 into place is typically all it takes to restore keys that are not in working condition.
how to repair car key lock -Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.