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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working

If your key fob won't work then you can fix it with some simple steps. The first step is to make sure it's not the backup remote.

If your backup remote can lock and unlock the doors of your G28 Car Keys, it is likely that the primary remote isn't working. The most common causes for key malfunctions for car key repair remotes are circuitry or battery issues.

Battery

It is not uncommon to find a battery on a car key fob to get worn out. It is quite simple to change out a battery, although it is essential to ensure that you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It's also a good idea to examine the battery compartment thoroughly, as dead batteries sometimes leak harmful chemicals that can damage the remote. If changing the batteries doesn't solve the issue it could be because there are other issues that require attention from a professional. If buttons are broken or stuck for instance it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rework each component. It is also possible to reprogramme the vehicle to recognize the new device.

Buttons

Key fobs may become dirty and worn-out from frequent use. It is not uncommon to have buttons stop functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be a huge hassle particularly if you're out of town and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable 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 up the remote and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other signs that the 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 where conductive painting is missing. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can erode the conductive paint and block the button from firing when it is pressed.

Check the battery connector terminals for loose solder connections. If this is the case, simply connecting them back may restore functionality to the button. You can use the same method to restore functionality to any other loose connection within the fob.

If any of the rubber buttons at the front of the keyfob are not working or require being pressing very hard the graphite disks on the back of the button could have worn out and will need to replaced. This is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks, which should bring the button back to its original state.

If none of these solutions work or you cannot get the button to respond when pressed hard, it could be that the circuitry has failed. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering the fob however, you should have another spare 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. A thorough inspection will usually resolve this issue. The most frequent causes of dirty circuit boards is water and damaged cases. A damaged case allows water and other debris to get in and short out the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and connectors that are small on the board, which are known as via's.

If you're handy enough to remove your key repair near me fob and aren't afraid of a little mess, we can de-solder the buttons and then solder new ones in their place. It's also worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not function properly or become stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in their place is generally all that's needed to return a non-working key fob to working order.

Non-Remote Transponder Chips

Sealed non-remote transponder chips are more durable than the remote fobs that have them but they can be damaged by a hole that is made in them or pushed over by a lawnmowers or car door handle. The majority of non-remote transponder chips fail, and this could be attributed to a blown fuse.

If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and utilize a multimeter to determine if the diode is working properly. If you're not comfortable doing this, go to your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they will usually have a RFID frequency tester that can tell you if the key fob is sending signals.

Programming

Key fobs endure many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They may lose their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or a low battery, requiring changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob to get it working again. In the event that resetting and repairing your key fob doesn't work it may be time to replace it entirely.