How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your mobile key repair fob isn't working 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 is able to lock and unlock your car door, it is most likely an issue with the main remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key fob repair remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery.

Battery

It is not uncommon for the battery inside the car key fob to wear out. It is fairly easy to change out the battery, however it is crucial to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to determine the type of battery you require. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully, as dead batteries sometimes leak caustic chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't solve the issue there could be other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck, for example, it may be necessary remove the remote and rebuild each component. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.

Buttons

key repair fobs can get dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not unusual, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to work. This can be very frustrating especially when you're away from your home and you need to switch on your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a bit of time and tools you already have at home.

First, check that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Then, open the remote with care and inspect the circuit board. Examine for signs of rust or other signs that the buttons are worn or damaged, such as missing conductive paint. Utilizing the Q-tip, dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, because this could damage the conductive painting and prevent the button from firing when the button is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals carefully for any loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply soldering them back in place can restore function to the button. The same method can be used to restore functionality to any other loose connections within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons on the front of the keyfob isn't working or need to be press extremely hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and will require replacement. It is usually done by rubbing a pen across the disks. This should bring the button to life.

If none of this is useful, or if the button does not respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board itself has become damaged. This can be fixed with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is recommended to have an additional fob available in the event this method doesn't work for you.

Circuitry

The circuit board of your remote control may be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is usually enough to fix this problem. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to pass through and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and connectors on the board, referred to as via's.

If you're able to open your key fob and you don't mind making an mess, you can take the buttons out of their sockets and then solder new ones. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals back to their original positions is often enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition.

Non-Remote transponder chips

The non-Remote Key Repair chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they can be cracked in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this can be attributed to an exploded fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to verify that the diode is functioning correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have an radio frequency tester that can let you know whether the key fob is transmitting a signal.

Programming

mobile key fob repair fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't completely indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver inside your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the key repair service fob and get it back up and running again. If resetting or repairing your key fob fails it may be necessary to replace it.