How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the car key fob to degrade. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very long press to function. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, because this could damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. You can usually 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 still does not respond to a firm press It could be the case that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A thorough examination will usually resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow 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 handy enough to open your repair 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 examining the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote car key repair near me fobs that contain them but they can still be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or damaged run over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have an radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.