How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery inside a key fob can wear out over time. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you use the right type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck, for example it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Due to repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very long press to work. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, mobile car key repair near me even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you might already have in the house.

First, make sure that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, repair car Key dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button firing when the button is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality if this is the situation. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button may have worn out and will require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to life.

If none of these solutions work or you are unable to get the button to respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to open your key repair shop near me fob and don't mind making some mess, we can take the buttons out of their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to restore a non-working 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 when a hole is made in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

mobile key fob repair fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver due to shock or a low battery, requiring them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.