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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it with just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.
If sell is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.
Battery
It is not unusual to find a battery on a key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential to select the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not common for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to get them working. This can be very frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and have to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.
First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.
Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, soldering them back in place could restore functionality to the button. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or require being press extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.
Circuitry
If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open up your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in functioning condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not confident doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it entirely.