How To Explain Remote Key Repair To A FiveYearOld
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 the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Due to repeated use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a long press to work. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the home.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them may restore functionality to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to working.
If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method does not work for you.
auto key repair
If the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering auto key repair and button's back in their place is generally all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to open the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it entirely.