Notes

13 Things About Remote Key Repair You May Not Have Known
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work, you can fix it by following some simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there is likely an issue with the primary remote. Most problems with car remote keys are caused by battery or circuitry problems.


Battery

It is not unusual for the battery in a key fob for cars to wear out. It is simple to replace batteries. However it is crucial to select the right type. You can refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is recommended to inspect the battery compartment with care because dead batteries can release caustic chemicals that could cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem stuck or damaged It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

Due to frequent use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few 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, carefully open up the remote and examine the circuit board. Look for indications of rust or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For instance, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn out or has conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when pressed.

Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. Soldering them back to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the situation. You can apply the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob.

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

If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob in case this method fails for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this problem. Broken cases and water are the most frequent causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are tiny connectors found on the board.

If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth looking at the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck 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

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than remote fobs that contain them but they can be damaged by a hole that is that is drilled into them or over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If you don't feel comfortable with this, you can visit your local Oreilly or hardware store and test their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob transmits a signal.

Programming

Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer can reprogram the keyfob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it all over again.

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