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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 be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.
If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to get worn out. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is essential to ensure you use the right type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem, 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. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged car keys repair can be fixed with a little time and a few items you have in the home.
First, ensure that car key repair shop are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when pressed.
Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could bring back function to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.
If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in working condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on an exploded fuse.
If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it completely.