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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work then you can fix it by following some simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote is not working. Most car remote key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is easy to replace the battery. However it is crucial that you use the correct type. You can consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is recommended to examine the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention by a professional. For instance, if the buttons seem to be stuck or damaged It may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From repeated use, key fobs can become worn and dirty. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to cease working or require a hard press for them to function. This can be extremely frustrating particularly if you're away from home and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and look over the circuit board. Look for signs of rust or other signs the buttons are damaged or worn. For example there could be conductive paint missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button firing when the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may bring back function to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing very hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be because the circuit board itself is damaged. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob on hand in the event that this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board called via's.

If you're able to remove your key repairs fob and aren't afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob back to working.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working it is possible to replace it.