How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work then you can fix it with just a few steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may be worn out over time. It is fairly easy to change out batteries, but it is crucial to make sure that you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also important to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not common to have buttons stop working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you may already have around the home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and car remote Key Repair shop near me examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place could bring back function to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

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

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and you don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back into place is typically all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to cracking when a hole is made in them or if a Car Remote Key Repair Shop Near Me door handle or lawnmower runs over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure lots of abuse and car remote key repair Shop near me aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.