How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote is not working. Most problems with car remote key repair 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 fairly easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure you select the correct one that you can refer to the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't functioning or require to be press very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will need to replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board itself has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob in case this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small 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 then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back 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 their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter to ensure that it is functioning as intended. function. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or car keys Repair hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.