How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, ensure that 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 of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could be worn out over time. It is easy to replace batteries. However it is crucial to select the right type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to inquire about the correct type. It's also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to take the Remote Key Repair apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new fob.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from your home and you need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are up 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 indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped into rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn out or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob repair service fob stop working or require a long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and need to be replaced. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

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

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's required to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking 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 could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're able to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse with a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're unsure about doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have a radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your repair car key fob because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working, it could be time to replace it completely.