How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work then you can fix it by following just a few steps. First, check to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ is able to lock and unlock your car door, then there is likely an issue with the main remote. The most common causes for car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not unusual to find a battery on a car key fob to wear out. It is simple to replace a battery. However it is crucial to select the right kind. You can check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to determine the correct type. It's recommended to examine the battery compartment thoroughly since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs can wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be a huge hassle especially 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 a few materials you might already have in the house.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Then, using the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have worn or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is it is pressed.

Also, make sure to inspect the battery connector's terminals for any loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob.

In the end, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't working or require a very difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which should bring the button back to life.

If none of this is helpful or if the button still doesn't respond to a hard push It could be because the circuit board itself has gone bad. This can be fixed by a quick clean and refitting, but it's recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. This problem can be resolved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also destroy pins and small connectors on the board called via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they're not tight enough, the buttons might not function or even stick in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them however they are still susceptible to being broken by a hole being that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're able to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify diode function. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and utilize their RF frequency tester. This will tell you whether the key fob sends signals.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.