3 Reasons You're Not Getting Remote Key Repair Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)

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 fix it. First, check to make sure it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle, it is likely that the main remote isn't functioning. The most common causes for key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is relatively easy to replace batteries, but it is essential to ensure you use the right type that you can refer to your owner's manual, or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment as dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

Buttons

Key fobs may become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. This is not uncommon however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to function. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are out of town and need to start your vehicle. Fortunately, even worn out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with just a bit of time and a few items you might already have in the home.

First, verify that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become worn-out or where conductive painting is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Examine the battery connector's terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back can restore function to the button. The same procedure can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being press very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pen over the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have a spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board inside the remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob function or not. This problem can be resolved through a thorough examination. The most common causes of dirty circuit boards are water and damaged cases. A damaged case could let water and other debris to enter the circuit board, which can cause it to short out. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and aren't afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between the 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 putting the button back in place is usually all that's required to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can still be broken key repair by a hole being made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers blade or car key repair company door handle. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures.

If you're not confident opening the mobile key repair fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have a RF frequency tester that will let you know whether the key fob is sending a signal.

Programming

Key fobs are not indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged by a variety of factors. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob to get it back up and running. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it entirely.