How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of car key fob repairs near me remote key failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace batteries. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue, there may be other issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for instance, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Check for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could 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 reconnecting them could restore function to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

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

If none of this is helpful or if the button does not respond to a hard press It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's required to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or car key repairs near me door local handle. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, local you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it all over again.