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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can fix it. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote key fob repair.

If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are battery or circuitry issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to get worn out. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is important to ensure you choose the correct type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be a hassle particularly when you're away from home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you have in the home.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously in order to damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could restore functionality to the button. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in 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 that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which will bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work or you 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 issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have an extra in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in place is usually all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are much more durable than remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it completely.