20 Trailblazers Leading The Way In Remote Key Repair
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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob does not work then you can fix it with some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. Most car remote key failures are caused by battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not uncommon to find a battery on the key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace the battery. However, it is important that you use the correct kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.
First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.
Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by get more info cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A here thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause 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 you're not afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, check here and putting the button back in check here their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.
If you're able to open the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional check here auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.