How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your car, near it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial that you use the correct type. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the right type. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment with care since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck for near instance it could be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to cease functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the house.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector terminals for an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of this is helpful or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. 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 are handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. 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 function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's required to return keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or when a door handle for a car key fob repair service or lawnmower runs over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open up a key fob that is sealed and can tolerate the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or near a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.