How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. The most common causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a key fob for cars to degrade. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is important to make sure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you need. It is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem, there may be other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are damaged or stuck, for example, it may be necessary take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are out of town and need to start your repair car remote control Key. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, check that the batteries are properly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing paint that is conductive. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or where conductive painting 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 the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. The same process can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob stop working or require a long press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button 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 another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside 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 problem. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is functioning properly. If you're not comfortable doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a lot of things. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto key repair near me locksmith or dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. In the event that resetting and fixing your key fob fails it could be the time to replace it completely.