How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car remote key fob repair remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a repair car key fob key fob to get worn out. It is simple to replace a battery. However, it is important to select the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or car remote key fob repair contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very hard press for them to work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and have to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a little time and a few materials you have in the home.

First, check that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

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

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.