How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote is not working. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can be worn out over time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is crucial to ensure that you use the right type that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you might already have in the home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place can restore functionality to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't functioning or require to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board called via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If repair car key near me to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it completely.
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