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. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to degrade. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is crucial that you choose the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment with care, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote key repair near me.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fob repairs fobs can get dirty and worn. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very long press to work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are up correctly 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 that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again If this is the case. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be pressed very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard press It could be because the circuit board itself is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're able to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring 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 blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be blamed on a blown fuse.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can let you know if the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto key fob repair locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.