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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 a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not your backup remote. If the backup can lock and unlock your car doors then there's a likely issue with the primary remote. The most frequent causes of car remote key failure are circuitry or battery issues. Battery It is not unusual for the battery inside a key fob for cars to get worn out. It is quite simple to replace batteries, but it is important to ensure you use the right type; you can look in your owner's manual or contact the dealer of the manufacturer to find out the kind of battery you need. It is also important to inspect the battery compartment as batteries that are not working properly can release caustic chemicals that can harm the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the problem there may be additional issues that require professional attention. For example, if buttons seem stuck or broken it could be necessary to take the remote apart and rebuild its components. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob. Buttons From frequent use, key fobs may become worn and dirty. This is not atypical, but it can cause buttons to stop working or require a long press to function. This can be a huge hassle, especially if you are away from home and need to start your vehicle. Even malfunctioning or worn-out buttons are often fixable with a little time and the tools you already have at home. First, make sure that the batteries have been correctly inserted and that the indentation at the back of the button is filled. Take the remote apart and inspect the circuit board. Look for signs of corrosion or other indications that the buttons are worn out or damaged, like missing the conductive paint. Use a Q-tip dipped into alcohol to gently clean any membrane contact that has become damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Be careful not to rub too hard, since this could cause damage to 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, soldering them back in place may restore functionality to the button. You can follow the same procedure to restore functionality to any other loose connection in the fob. If, for instance, any of the rubber buttons on the front of the key fob aren't functioning or require a difficult press to function it is likely the graphite disks on the back of the button are deteriorating and require replacement. This can be 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 if you still are unable to get the button to respond when pressed hard, it is possible that the circuitry has failed. This can sometimes be repaired by a quick clean and refitting, but it's best to have an extra fob available in the event this method fails for you. Circuitry Whether or not the key fob buttons function the circuit board in your remote may be dirty. key fob repairs is often enough to resolve this problem. Water and broken cases are the most frequent causes of boards that are dirty. A damaged case can allow water and other debris to enter and short circuit the electronics. Water can also destroy pins and connectors on the board, which are known as via's. If you're able to open your key fob, and don't mind making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, it's worth checking the connections between battery terminals. If they are loose, the buttons could not function or get stuck in their down position. Soldering the terminals, and putting the button back in place is usually all that's needed to return the key fob that is not working to working condition. Non-Remote Transponder Chips The non-remote chips sealed in a sealed case are more durable than their remote fobs, but they are susceptible to cracking in the event of a hole being drilled in them, or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. The failure of the fuse is usually to blame for non-remote chip failures. If you are not comfortable opening the key fob, take the circuit board off and use a multimeter to determine if the diode is working correctly. If you're unsure about doing this, visit your local hardware store or Oreilly's, and they usually have a radio frequency tester that can tell you whether the key fob is transmitting a signal. Programming Key fobs are not indestructible and can be damaged by a variety of factors. They may lose their connection to the receiver in your car due to shock or low battery, which calls for them to be reprogrammed. A professional auto locksmith, or main dealer, can reprogram your keyfob to get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and repairing your key fob fails it may be time to replace it completely.