20 Trailblazers Lead The Way In Remote Key Repair
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 fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is crucial to make sure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little effort and 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. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be because the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.
If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick 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.
Read the Full Write-up -Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, but they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in 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 failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it up and running again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.