3 Common Reasons Why Your Remote Key Repair Isn't Working (And What You Can Do To Fix It)

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. First, make sure that it's not your backup remote.

If your backup remote cannot lock and unlock the doors of your car, it is likely that the primary remote is not working. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery inside the key fob could get worn out over the course of time. It is simple to replace the battery. However, it is important 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 also important to check the battery compartment, as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs can become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. This is not atypical however, it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very hard press for them to function. This can be frustrating, especially when you are away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and some of the materials you have in the home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, open the remote with care and examine the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Then, using a Q-tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button firing when the button is pressed.

Examine  car remote key repair  for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back could bring back function to the button. The same process can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections in the fob.

Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber that are on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a hard press to work, it is likely that the graphite disks at the back of the button are wearing down and require replacement. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks. This should bring the button back to working.

If none of these solutions work, or if you still not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry is failing. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob but you should also have another spare in case it does not work.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also damage pins and vias, which are small connectors found on the board.

If you're able to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can take off the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. They can become extremely dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to bring a non-working fob to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chip are more durable than the remote fobs that contain them but they can be cracked by a hole drilled into them or run over by a lawnmower or door handle for a car. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip failures could be attributed to blowing fuses.

If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is operating properly. If you're not comfortable with this, go to your local Oreilly or hardware store and use their RF frequency tester. This will let you know whether the key fob is sending an RF signal.

Programming

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse and aren't completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle because of shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it back functioning again. If resetting or replacing your keyfob does not work it is possible to replace it.