How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes of key malfunctions for repair car key remote; super fast reply, remotes are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob repair service key fob to wear out. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is crucial to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a long press to function. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can follow the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob key repair function or repair car key Remote not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and Repair Car Key Remote then solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and check the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they'll usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.