How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following just a few steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.
If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.
Battery
It is not unusual for the battery inside the car key fob to get worn out. It is simple to replace the battery. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. G28 Car Keys can refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the right kind. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Due to frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and you need to switch on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.
First, check that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button firing when it is pressed.
Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.
If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob are not working or need to be pressed very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.
If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob, but you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.
If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.
Non-Remote Transponder Chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, but they can be cracked when a hole is made into them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.
If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits signals.
Programming
Key fobs take many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.