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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn’t Working
If your key fob doesn’t work There are a few simple steps that can fix it. The first step is to be sure that it’s not your backup remote.
If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors then there’s a likely issue with the main remote. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery inside a key fob can wear out over time. It is easy to replace a battery. However it is essential that you use the correct kind. You can refer to the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the right type. It’s recommended to inspect the battery compartment thoroughly because dead batteries can leak harmful chemicals that can harm the remote. If changing the batteries doesn’t solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If the buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
From frequent use, key fobs can get dirty and worn. It is not unusual for buttons to stop working, or to require a hard press to get them working. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you might already have in the home.
First, make sure the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Open the remote carefully and look over the circuit board. Look for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons are worn or damaged. For central locking key repair that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing a Q-tip dipped in alcohol to gently clean any membrane contacts that are worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously, as this could erode the conductive paint and prevent the button from firing when you press it.
Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply reconnecting them may restore function to the button. You can follow the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.
Finally, if any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil on the disks, which will bring the button back to its original state.
If none of this is helpful or if the button still does not respond to a firm press, then it may be the case that the circuit board is damaged. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is ideal to have a spare fob in case this method does not work for you.
Circuitry
Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed by a thorough inspection. Broken cases and water are the most common causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to get into the circuit board, causing it to short out. Water can also destroy pins and connectors that are small on the board called via’s.
If you’re able to open up your key fob, and you’re not afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and put new ones in their place. It’s also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. They can become very filthy and if they’re not tight enough, the buttons may not work or may even remain in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons back in their place is generally all that’s needed to return a non-working key fob to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, however they can be cracked when a hole is made in them or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. Failures of the fuse are typically to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you’re able to remove 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 a multimeter for proper diode function. If you’re unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly’s and they usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is sending signals.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren’t completely indestructible. They can lose their pairing to the car’s receiver because of shock or a low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it working again. In the rarer case that resetting and repairing your key fob fails, it could be time to replace it entirely.
