How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob does not work then you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is most likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key malfunctions for car remotes are issues with the circuitry or battery. Battery The battery inside the key fob may get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to replace the battery, however it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in the owner's manual or talk to the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may release caustic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. 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 remote. Buttons From repeated use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not uncommon for buttons to cease working, or to require a long press to make them work. This can be very frustrating particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or malfunctioning buttons can often be fixed with just a bit of time and some of the materials you may already have around the home. First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is worn out or has conductive paint missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint, and block the button from firing when it is pressed. Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality if this is the case. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob. If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob have stopped functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to its original state. If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have another spare in case it does not work. Circuitry The circuit board of the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronics. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors found on the board. If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can get very dirty and if they're loose the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or when a door handle for a car or lawnmower runs over them. key repair near me of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses. If you're handy enough to remove a key fob that is sealed and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is sending signals. Programming Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.
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