How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key Repair Car fob doesn't work A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car key and repair doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard press to get them working. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the home.

First, verify that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

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

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in the remote could be dirty. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, but they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or key Repair car lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and key repair Car they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car key repair due to shock or low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.