How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The majority of car remote key malfunctions are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to degrade. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is important to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to frequent use. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for Auto key fob repair signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will allow the button to function again if this is the case. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have a spare 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 inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

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 put in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they can be cracked if a hole is drilled in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and auto key fob repair can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto key fob repair (hyperlink) locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it all over again.