How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it with some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

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

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However, it is important to select the right kind. You can check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right kind. It is also essential to check the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem stuck or broken, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a long push to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you might already have in the home.

First, verify that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, 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, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back could restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob on hand in the event that this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the mobile key repair near me fob are working or not. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you're able to open up your key repair shop near me fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function 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 chips are much more durable than remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or repair car keys door key repair near me handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.

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

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key repair service fob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.