How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working, a few easy steps can fix it. First, ensure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote is not working. Most repair car key remote key failures result from battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery in the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is essential to select the right kind. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals which can damage 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. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your mobile car key Repair to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a difficult press to get them to work. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from your home and need to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are up correctly and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons have been damaged or worn out. For instance there could be conductive paint missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has damaged or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when pressed.

Examine 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 within the fob.

In the end, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob have stopped working or require a very long press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button does not respond to a firm press It could be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob however, you should have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this issue. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could allow water and other debris into the circuit board, which can cause it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to remove your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons could not function properly or Mobile Car Key Repair become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote key repair transponder chip are more durable than remote fobs they are contained in, but they can still be damaged by a hole that is drilled into them or run over by a lawnmowers blade or door handle for a car. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard 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 will usually have a RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take lots of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. In the event that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it could be the time to replace it entirely.