If your key fob isn't working, 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 car remote key repair near me is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial to select the right type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. 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 battery does not solve the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them may restore function to the button. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in 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 the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.
If you are handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're handy enough to open the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it entirely.
