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How to Fix a Key Fob That isn't Working If your key fob won't work, you can fix it with a few simple steps. The first step is to be sure that it's not the backup remote. If your backup remote cannot unlock and lock the doors of your car, it is likely that the main remote isn't working. The most common causes for key malfunctions for car remotes are circuitry or battery issues. Battery It is not unusual for the battery in the key fob for cars to get worn out. It is quite simple to replace a battery, although it is important to make sure that you select the correct one; you can look in your owner's manual, or contact the manufacturer's dealer to find out what kind of battery you need. It is also crucial to check the battery compartment, as dead batteries can leak toxic chemicals that could damage the remote. If replacing the battery does not fix the issue there may be additional issues requiring professional attention. If the buttons are stuck or broken for instance it might be necessary to remove the remote and rebuild each component. You could also try reprogramming your vehicle to recognize the new key fob. Buttons Due to repeated use, key fobs may wear out and become dirty. This is not atypical however it can cause buttons to cease working or require a very long press to function. This can be frustrating particularly when you're away from your home and need to turn on your car. Fortunately, even worn-out or broken buttons can usually be fixed with a bit of time and a few items you have in the house. First, check that the batteries have been correctly placed and that the indentation at the back of the button has been filled. Then, carefully remove the remote and inspect the circuit board. Examine for indications of rust or other indications that the buttons have been damaged or worn. For instance the paint that conducts electricity could be missing. Utilizing key repairs -tip dipped in alcohol, gently clean any membrane contacts that have damaged or where conductive paint is missing. Don't rub too hard as this can damage the conductive paint and stop the button from firing when pressed. Also, be sure to check the battery connector's terminals to ensure an unattached solder connection. Soldering them back into place can restore the button's functionality in the event that this is the case. 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 have stopped functioning or require a hard press to work it is likely that the graphite disks that are on the back of the button are wearing out and require replacement. You can usually do this by rubbing a pen across the disks. This will bring the button back to life. If none of this is useful, or if the button still does not respond to a hard push, then it may be because the circuit board is damaged. It is possible to fix the issue by cleaning and re-soldering the button but you should also have a spare in case it doesn't work. Circuitry If the keys fob buttons are functioning the circuit board that is inside the remote could be dirty. A very thorough inspection will usually resolve this problem. The most common causes for dirty circuit boards is water and broken cases. A broken case allows water and other debris to pass through and short circuit the electronic components. Water can also damage pins and small connectors on the board called via's. If you're skilled enough to open your key fob, and aren't afraid of making an mess, you can remove the buttons from their sockets and then solder new ones. Also, you should check the connections between battery terminals. They can become very dirty and if they're loose, the buttons might not function or even stay in their down position. Soldering terminals and buttons back to their proper positions is usually enough to return a malfunctioning fob to a working condition. Non-Remote transponder chips The sealed non-remote chips are more durable than remote fobs. However, they are susceptible to breaking in the event of a hole being drilled in them or if a car door handle or lawnmowers is pushed over them. Fuse failures are usually the cause of non-remote chip failures. If you're not comfortable opening the key fob, you may remove the circuitboard and use a multimeter to check that the diode is operating properly. If you're not confident doing this, visit your local hardware store or the Oreilly's and they usually have an RF frequency tester that will tell you whether the key fob transmitting a signal. Programming Key fobs endure a lot of abuse and aren't indestructible. They can break their connection with the receiver in your vehicle due to shocks or low-battery, which requires reprogramming. A professional auto locksmith or dealer can reprogram your key fob and get it functioning again. If, in the unlikely event that resetting and fixing your key fob doesn't work, it could be time to replace it entirely.