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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob does not work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is crucial to ensure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also important to examine 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 additional issues requiring professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few materials you have in the home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use car key remote repairs -tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.





Also, carefully check the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't functioning or require to be press extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn 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, or if you still 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 a quick clean, and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most frequent 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. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob sends a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.