How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob isn't functioning, a few easy steps can fix it. The first step is to make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.

Battery

The battery inside a key fob can wear out over time. It is fairly easy to change out a battery, although it is important to ensure that you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote key fob repair. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue there could be other issues that require professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Key fobs can get filthy and worn out due to frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop working, or to require a long press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard as this can erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Check the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, soldering them back in place could restore functionality to the button. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections inside the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not functioning or require to be press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button might have worn out and require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button back to life.

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 has become damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and fob water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and solder new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons might not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back in place is usually all that's required to return the key fob that is not working to working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled into them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Most of the time, non-remote transponder chip malfunctions can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will inform you whether the key fob transmits an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or a dealer in the main can reprogram your keyfob and get it working again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.