How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to make sure that 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 main remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is fairly easy to replace a battery, local although it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and have to switch on your repair car key. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools 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. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has 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 for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely 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. This should bring the button back to working.

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 by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or repair car remote control key door local handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating correctly. 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 sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it completely.