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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob does not work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with some simple steps. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote can unlock and lock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the primary remote isn't functioning. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are issues with the circuitry or battery. Battery It is not unusual for the battery inside a car key fob to degrade. It is relatively easy to change out the battery, however it is important to ensure that you select the correct one that you can refer to your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also important to examine the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the battery doesn't fix the issue, there may be other issues that require professional attention. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework each component. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Through repeated use, key fobs may get dirty and worn. It is not unusual to have buttons stop working, or to require a long push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you are away from home and you need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little effort 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. Examine for signs of rust or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that is damaged or has conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button firing when it is pressed. Examine the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may bring back function to the button. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection inside the fob. If any of the rubber buttons located at the front of the keyfob aren't working or need to be pressing very hard the graphite disks at the back of the button may have worn out and need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to life. If none of this is useful, or if the button doesn't respond to a hard press It could be the case that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button, but you should have an extra in case it does not work. Circuitry The circuit board in your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. The issue can be solved by a thorough inspection. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. auto key repair near me broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also get through pins and vias, which are the tiny connectors that are found on the board. If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a 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. If they are loose, the buttons could not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their original positions is often enough to restore a non-working fob to a working condition. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking if a hole is drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually the cause of non-remote chip failures. If you're able to remove a sealed non-remote key fob and are able to bear the mess, you can remove the circuit board and examine the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, head to your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they'll usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine if the key fob is sending signals. Programming Key fobs are subject to lots of abuse and aren't indestructible. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or the main dealer can reprogram the key fob and get it back functioning again. In the rarer case that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work it could be the time to replace it completely.