How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct kind. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and have to switch on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. If this is the case, reconnecting them could bring back function to the button. The same method 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 aren't working or require being pressed extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of this is useful or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press It could be that the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open up your mobile key repair fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they're loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken car key repair (moved here) by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers or door key repair near me handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and Broken Car Key Repair can tolerate the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.