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 with a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most car remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to get worn out. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is important to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you might already have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where to repair car key remote conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and where to repair Car key Remote stop the button from firing when pressed.

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

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Water and broken car key repair near me cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob repair near me fob, and aren't afraid of making a 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're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

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

If you're handy enough to remove the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not sure with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.