How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

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

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery in a car key fob to wear out. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not solve the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or key repair require a very long press to work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you have in the house.

First, make sure that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and look over the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place will restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections inside the fob.

If, for instance, any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If none of this is useful or if the button still does not respond to a hard press, then it may be that the circuit board itself has gone bad. This can be fixed by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and broken cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. Also, you should check the connections between the battery terminals. They can get very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore keys that are not in functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can still be cracked by a hole made in them or key Repair pushed over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not confident opening the key repair fob, remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is working correctly. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your mobile car key repair because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.