How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

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

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a key fob for cars to degrade. It is relatively easy to change out batteries, but it is crucial to ensure that you use the right type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. It is not common for buttons to stop working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the home.

First, check that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again if this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. This can be fixed by a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.

Non-remote mobile key fob repair repair car key fob (have a peek here) transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmowers or car key lock repair near me door handle. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.