How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your emergency car key repair doors, it is most likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is essential that you choose the right type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right type. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not common to have buttons stop functioning, or Remote Key Fob Repair Near Me (page) require a hefty press to get them working. This can be frustrating especially when you're away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the house.

First, verify that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote car key repair and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, connecting them back may bring back function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are 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 down and need to be replaced. This can usually be 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 doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this with a quick clean and refitting, but it's ideal to have a spare fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and can tolerate the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test 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 a RF frequency tester that will determine whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle key repairs because of shocks or a low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.