How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't working 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 main remote. The most common causes of key malfunctions for repair car keys remotes are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is essential to make sure that you use the right type and you can consult the owner's manual or talk to the dealer for the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also essential to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

From frequent use, key fobs could get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hefty push to make them work. This can be a hassle especially when you're away from your home and have to switch on your car. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home.

First, verify that the batteries have been correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position will allow the button to function again If this is the case. The same process can be used to restore function to any loose connections in the fob.

If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of this is helpful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard push, then it may be the case that the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have an extra in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most common causes for remote key fob repair dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors that are found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind a little mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons into place is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote key Fob repair fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them, or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Failures of the fuse are typically the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they'll usually have an radio frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They may lose their connection to the car key fob repair near me's receiver due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.