How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work then you can fix it with just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The majority of car remote key repair key malfunctions are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out a battery, although it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your Vehicle Key Repairs to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, Vehicle Key Repairs open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons are damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to 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 stop the button from firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore function to the button. You can apply the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's required to return keys that are not in functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or if a car door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're handy enough to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Vehicle Key Repairs Oreilly's, and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it all over again.