How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work then you can fix it with just a few steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for car remote Key Car Repair failure are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you need. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes 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 attention by a professional. If buttons are damaged or stuck, for example it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from your home and have to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and inspect the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when you press it.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a long press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button, 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 function or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and key Car repair short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck 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

The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made into them or when a door handle for a repair car keys or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, Key car repair non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.