How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

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

If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The majority of car remote key malfunctions result from circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a key fob for cars to wear out. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is crucial to ensure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to determine the type of battery you require. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to 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 the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Through repeated use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. This is not unusual however, it can cause buttons to stop functioning or damaged require a difficult press to get them to function. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, check that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again If this is the case. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If all of this doesn't help, or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key repair near me fob are working or not. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them however they are still susceptible to being damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and can be damaged by a lot of things. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.