How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work then you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on the car key fob to get worn out. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or broken It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from home and have to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can use the same method 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 stop functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. 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 back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car key fob repair's receiver due to shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or auto key fob Repair fixing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.