13 Things About Remote Key Repair You May Not Have Known
Wiki Article
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote is not working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob could be worn out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not unusual to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged 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 pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be check here 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 are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. 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 allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case website are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to open a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If here you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and key car repair they usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose more info their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.