How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup can lock and unlock your emergency car key repair doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car key repair remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is essential that you use the correct type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is also important to check the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons seem stuck or damaged it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from frequent use. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a hard press for them to work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are out of town and need to start your repair car key. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a little effort and tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Open the remote carefully and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has worn-out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it.

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

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be press extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and need to replaced. This can be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to working.

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. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button however, you should have a spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board called via's.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob and don't mind some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can get very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them or when a door handle for a car key repair near me or lawnmower runs over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures can be blamed on blowing fuses.

If you're able to open up a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not sure with this, visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged near by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, which calls for reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith, or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it all over again.