A Look At The Ugly Real Truth Of Remote Key Repair

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are battery or circuitry issues.
Battery
The battery inside the key fob may be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct type. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.
Buttons
Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from frequent use. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and tools you already have at home.
First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when pressed.
Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them can bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressed extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. remote car key repair will bring the button back to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.
Circuitry
The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.
If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine if the key fob is sending a signal.
Programming
Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your key fob and get it back working again. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it all over again.