How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob isn't working There are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix it. The first step is to be sure it's not the backup remote. If the backup remote is able to lock and unlock your car doors, then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most common causes of key problems with your car remote are circuitry or battery issues. Battery The battery inside the key fob may wear out over time. It is simple to replace batteries. However, it is important that you choose the right kind. You can consult your owner's manual or call the manufacturer to find out the correct type. It is also a good idea to examine the battery compartment carefully since dead batteries may leak caustic chemicals that can cause damage to the remote. If changing the batteries does not solve the problem it could be that there are other issues that require attention from a professional. For example, if buttons appear stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework its components. You could also try reprogramming the vehicle to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Key fobs may become dirty and worn out from repeated use. This is not unusual however it can cause buttons to stop working or require a very difficult press to get them to work. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from home and you need to start your car. Even broken or damaged buttons are often fixable with a bit of time and tools you already have at home. First, check that the batteries are properly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully open the remote and look at the circuit board. Check for evidence of rust, or other signs the buttons have been worn or damaged. For example the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Use the Q-tip, dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that are damaged or have conductive paint missing. Avoid rubbing too hard since this could cause damage to the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when it is the button is pressed. Also, carefully check the battery connector's terminals to ensure a loose solder connection. If this is the case, connecting them back may restore function to the button. You can use the same process to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob. If any of the rubber buttons 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 will need to replaced. This can usually be done by rubbing a pencil across the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state. If none of these solutions work or you not be able to get the button respond when you press it hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can be fixed with a quick clean and replacing the solder, but it is best to have an extra fob available in the event this method fails for you. Circuitry The circuit board in your remote control could be dirty regardless of whether the buttons on the key fob are working or not. A thorough examination is often enough to resolve this issue. Broken and damaged cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A broken case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also eat away at pins and small connectors on the board, referred to as via's. If you're handy enough to open your key fob, and you're not afraid of making a mess, we can remove the solder from the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the battery terminal connections. If they're loose, the buttons may not work or even become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back into place is typically all that's needed to return keys that are not in functioning condition. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than remote fobs, but they are susceptible to breaking when a hole is made in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmower runs over them. Fuse failures are usually to blame for non-remote chips failures. If you're handy enough to open up the sealed key fob and are willing to put up with the mess, you can take off the circuit board and test the fuse using a multimeter for proper diode function. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is sending signals. Programming Key fobs aren't indestructible and are susceptible to being damaged through a variety of causes. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low-battery, which requires the reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it up and running again. If resetting or fixing your key fob fails it is possible to replace it.