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The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Been Hearing About Remote Key Repair
How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working


If your key fob doesn't work A few easy steps can be taken to fix it. First, make sure that it's not the backup remote.

If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. Most problems with car remote keys result from circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

The battery in a key fob can get worn out over the course of time. It is quite simple to change out a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It is also essential to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new remote.

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From frequent use, key fobs could wear out and become dirty. This is not uncommon, but it can cause buttons to stop functioning or require a long press to function. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're away from home and you need to start your vehicle. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing paint that is conductive. Then, using a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard in order to damage the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back to their original position can restore the button's functionality if this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any loose connections within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing extremely hard the graphite disks at the back of the button might have worn out and will require replacement. This can 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 you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but 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 by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case could let water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors that are small on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and solder in new ones. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons may not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob back to working.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs they are contained in, however they are still susceptible to being cracked by a hole made in them or pushed over by a lawnmower or car door handle. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chip failures.

If you're handy enough to open a sealed non-remote key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and examine the fuse with an instrument to verify 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 RF frequency tester that will let you know if the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

Key fobs take a lot of abuse and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it entirely.