How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

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

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to wear out. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is essential to make sure that you select the correct one and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, Key repair shop (http://easy.ksubest.com/bbs/board.php?bo_table=free&wr_id=246224) fobs may get dirty and worn. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a long press to function. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from home and you need to turn on your car key repair service. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little effort and materials you already have at 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 inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may bring back function to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in 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 work or even stick 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

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you if the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or Key Repair Shop a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.