How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most frequent causes of key problems with your car key fob repairs remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial to select the right kind. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if the buttons appear stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a hard press for them to function. This can be very frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and need to switch on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the home.

First, check that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use the Q-tip, fobs dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

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

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when pressed 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 inside your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. The issue can be solved through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back into place is usually enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or fobs door handle for a car key button repair. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it entirely.