How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob isn't functioning There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by circuitry or battery issues. Battery It is not unusual to find a battery on the car key fob to get worn out. It is simple to replace a battery. However, it is important that you choose the right kind. You can check your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to determine the right type. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, as 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 damaged or stuck, for example it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote. Buttons Due to repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not common for buttons to cease functioning, or require a hard press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the house. First, make sure that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip, dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed. Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals for a loose solder connection. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place may restore functionality to the button. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob. Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are deteriorating and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button to life. If none of these solutions work, or if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you. Circuitry If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case allows water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's. If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to bring a non-working fob to working. Non-Remote transponder chips The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs, however they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to a blown fuse. If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and check the fuse using an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal. Programming Key fobs endure lots of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If resetting or replacing key repair near me fails, you may need to replace it.
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