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 with some simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob to degrade. It is quite simple to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your repair car key Remote to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs could wear out and repair Car Key remote become dirty. It is not common for buttons to cease working, or to require a hard press to make them work. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and need to turn on your car. Even broken or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little effort and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again in the event that this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections inside the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a very long press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, Car Key fob Repairs or if you still cannot get the button to respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A broken case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are small connectors that are found on the board.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob and you don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and put in new ones. Also, you should check the connections between the 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 terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking if a hole is drilled in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can easily remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, repair car key remote which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it working again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.