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 it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, G28carkeys it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a repair key fob fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is essential that you choose the right kind. You can refer to your owner's guide or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or damaged, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, G28Carkeys or to require a long press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your repair car key fob. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and the tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the situation. You can apply the same method 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 long press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed by a quick clean, and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method fails for you.

Circuitry

If the keys fob buttons are functioning, the circuit board inside the remote could be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also eat through pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open up your key fob and don't mind a little 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. They can become extremely filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons may not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that's required to return keys that are not in working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can still be cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you're not confident opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is operating properly. If you're not sure with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and G28Carkeys test their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob transmits signals.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing to the receiver in your car due to shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer, can reprogram your key fob and get it back working again. If resetting or fixing the keyfob is not working it may be necessary to replace it.