How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. Most car remote car key repair near me key failures result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may be worn out over time. It is simple to replace the battery. However, it is important that you choose the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the problem there could be other issues requiring professional attention. For example, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn out from repeated use. It is not unusual for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be very frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your repair car key remote. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and materials you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are correctly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote key repair and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive painting is missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality If this is the case. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or require being press extremely hard, the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and will need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method does not work for you.

Circuitry

If the key fob buttons are working, the circuit board inside your remote may be dirty. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're able to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can take off 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 could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's needed to return keys that are not in working order.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or Remote Key Repair over by a lawnmowers blade or car door handle. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip failures can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have a RFID frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob sending signals.

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 them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it entirely.