How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. The majority of car remote key repair remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to degrade. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure that you use the right type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also essential to check the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Through frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a hefty push to make them work. This can be very frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when it is the button is pressed.

Also, carefully check the battery connector 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 functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be press very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button still doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board has become damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the automotive key repair fob are working or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.

If you are handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind making some mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all it takes to restore a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that have them but they can be broken by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car because of shock or a low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or replacing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.

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