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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob doesn't work and you're not sure why, you can fix it with just a few steps. First, ensure that it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote is unable to lock and unlock the doors of your car, then it is likely that the main remote is not working. The most common causes of car remote key failure are issues with the circuitry or battery. Battery It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important that you use the correct type. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to inquire about the right kind. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment, since batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals which can damage the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the issue, it may be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons seem to be stuck or broken It may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rebuild its components. You can also try reprogramming your car to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Through frequent use, key fobs could become worn and dirty. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hefty press to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're out of town and need to start your car. Even worn-out or malfunctioning buttons can be fixed with a little time and the tools you already have at home. First, check that the batteries are properly charged and that the indentation on the back of the button is filled. Then, carefully open the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for evidence of rust, or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For example, conductive paint may be missing. Use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or have conductive paint missing. Don't rub too hard, as this could erode the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when you press it. Check the battery connector's terminals for loose solder connections. Soldering them back in place will allow the button to function again If this is the situation. You can apply the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob. Finally, if any of the buttons made of rubber on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely that the graphite disks on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This should bring the button back to life. If electronic car key repair of this is helpful or if the button doesn't respond to a firm press, then it may be that the circuit board has gone bad. This can sometimes be repaired with a quick clean and re-soldering, but it is best to have an extra fob on hand in the event that this method does not work for you. Circuitry The circuit board inside your remote control may be dirty, regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob work or not. A very thorough inspection is often enough to resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short out the electronics. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's. If you're handy enough to remove your key fob and don't mind making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and put new ones in their place. It's also worth examining the battery terminal connections. If they are loose, the buttons might not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals and buttons to their proper positions is usually enough to restore a non-working fob back to working. Non-Remote transponder chips The non-remote chips that are sealed are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made into them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Most of the time non-remote transponder chip malfunctions could be attributed to blowing fuses. If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to check that the diode is functioning properly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they will usually have a RF frequency tester that will determine if the key fob is transmitting a signal. Programming Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction and are susceptible to damage by a lot of things. They can lose their pairing to the car's receiver because of shock or a low battery, which requires them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or a dealer in the main, can reprogram your key fob and get it back up and running again. In the rarer case that resetting or repairing your key fob isn't working it may be time to replace it completely.