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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 fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.
If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. linked here for car remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. However, it is important to select the right type. You can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Through frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very hard press for them to work. This can be a hassle, especially when you are away from your home and you need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the home.
First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again if this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. It is usually done 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 you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have a spare in case it does not work.
Circuitry
The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.
If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to a working 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 majority of non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to blowing fuses.
If you're able to open up a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know if the key fob is transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.