How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work, a few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote.

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

Battery

The battery in the key fob may be worn out over time. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from repeated use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and you need to start your G28 Car Keys. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, G28 car keys open the remote with care and look over 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 rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very hard press to work it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and keyrepair require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of this is useful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be because the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have a spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

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 damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning properly. 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 aren't indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.