10 Facts About Remote Key Repair That Can Instantly Put You In The Best Mood
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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure 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 primary remote is not working. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
The battery in the key fob may wear out over time. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or broken, it may 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 can become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little time and tools you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can apply the same procedure 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 have stopped functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the get more info button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this remote key fob repair method doesn't work for here you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the here buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, click here the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it all over again.