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 your backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside a car key fob to wear out. It is relatively easy to replace the battery, however it is crucial to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It's recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could 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 take the remote apart and rebuild its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from home and have to start your car keys repair near me. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, ensure that the batteries are charged correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, reconnecting them could restore functionality to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

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

If none of this is helpful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press, then it may be because the circuit board has gone bad. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function, the circuit board inside your remote might be dirty. A very thorough inspection is usually enough to fix this problem. Water and broken cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-remote key repairs transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or repair car key door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have an RFID frequency tester that can tell you if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver due to shock or low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.