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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, check to make sure 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. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery problems.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to replace a battery, although it is essential to ensure you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also important to check the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons seem to be stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its parts. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very long press to function. This can be a huge hassle especially if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you may already have around the house.

First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use repair car key -tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode 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 to their original position can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can use the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

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

If none of this is useful or if the button doesn't respond to a firm 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 a spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote may be dirty. A thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short out 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 your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth checking 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 into place is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be broken by a hole being drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage 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 main dealer can reprogram the keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or fixing your keyfob does not work it may be necessary to replace it.