How To Explain Remote Key Repair To Your Grandparents
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery in the car key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.
Buttons
Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to stop functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the house.
First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check broken car key repair near me for loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them can restore function to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to working.
If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. how to repair car key fob can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons function the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or even stick 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
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends a signal.
Programming
Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.