10 Facts About Remote Key Repair That Will Instantly Put You In Good Mood

How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working
If your key fob doesn't work, you can fix it with just a few 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 vehicle, it is likely that the main remote is not working. Most car remote key failures are caused by circuitry or battery issues.
Battery
The battery in a key fob can wear out over time. It is quite simple to change out batteries, but it is essential to ensure you choose the correct type and you can consult your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you require. It is also crucial to inspect the battery compartment, since dead batteries can leak caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the problem, it may be that there are other issues that require professional attention. For instance, if buttons appear stuck or broken, it may be necessary to disassemble the remote and rework its components. You can also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob.
Buttons
Key fobs can become filthy and worn out due to repeated use. It is not uncommon for buttons to stop functioning, or require a hard push to make them work. This can be extremely frustrating especially if you're away from home and need to start your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or damaged buttons can be fixed with a little time and a few materials you might already have in the house.
First, verify that the batteries are correctly installed and that the indentation on the back of the button has been filled. Take the remote apart and examine the circuit board. Check for signs of corrosion or other indications that buttons are worn out or damaged, such as missing the conductive paint. Utilizing a Q-tip that has been dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have become worn or where conductive paint is missing. Do not rub too vigorously as this can damage 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 to their original position will restore the button's functionality If this is the case. The same method can be used to restore function to any other loose connections in the fob.
Finally, if repair broken car key of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob stop working or require a difficult press to function, it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing down and need to be replaced. It is usually done by rubbing a pencil over the disks. This will bring the button back to life.
If all of this doesn't help, or if the button does not respond to a hard press, then it may be the case that the circuit board itself has become damaged. It is possible to fix this by cleaning and re-soldering your fob, but you should have another spare in case it doesn't work.
Circuitry
If the key fob buttons are working the circuit board that is inside your remote might be dirty. This issue can be fixed through a thorough examination. Broken and damaged cases are the most common causes of dirty boards. A damaged case could allow water and other debris to enter the circuit board, causing it to short. Water can also damage pins and connectors on the board called via's.
If you're able to open up your key fob, and you're not afraid of some mess, we can take off the buttons and solder new ones in their place. Also, it's worth checking the connections between the battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not work or even stay in their down position. Soldering the terminals and button's back into place is typically all it takes to restore the key fob that is not working to functioning condition.
Non-Remote transponder chips
The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than their remote fobs. However, they can be cracked when a hole is made in them, or in the event that a door handle of a car or lawnmowers plows over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chips failures.
If you're not confident opening the key fob, you can remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is working correctly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's and they will usually have an RFID frequency tester that can determine whether the key fob transmitting a signal.
Programming
Key fobs are subject to many abuses and aren't impervious to damage. They can lose their pairing with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low battery, which calls for changing the program. A professional auto locksmith or a main dealer will be able to reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If resetting or repairing the keyfob is not working, you may need to replace it.