What to Do If Key Fob Is Not Working & Why Not Working

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If your key fob is not working, try replacing the battery, as it might just be running low on power. You can typically find the battery type listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the key fob itself. Remove the old battery, and insert a new one, making sure it’s facing the right way.

If the battery isn’t the issue, you might need to reprogram your key fob. Your owner’s manual should have instructions on how to do this, or you can look it up online. The process usually involves a sequence of actions, like turning the key in the ignition, pressing buttons on the key fob, or opening and closing doors.

Another possibility is that there’s a problem with your car’s receiver, which is responsible for picking up the signal from your key fob.

If you’re still having trouble, it’s possible that your key fob is just broken or damaged. In this case, you’ll need to get a new one. Reach out to your local dealership or a locksmith who specializes in automotive keys to get a replacement. Remember to have your vehicle’s identification number (VIN) handy, as they’ll need it to provide you with the correct key fob.

Why Your Car Key Fob Is Not Working:

These are might be the following reasons:

1. The Worn Buttons

The buttons on your key fob can wear down over time, which can cause them to not make proper contact with the circuit board. This can lead to inconsistent performance or certain buttons not working at all. Replacing the remote housing or the entire key fob may be necessary.

2. If Low Battery

A low battery in your key fob can cause it to stop working or function intermittently. Replacing the battery is a simple fix for this issue.

Broken Receiver: If the receiver in your car that picks up the signal from the key fob is broken, the key fob won’t work. In this case, you’ll need to visit a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.

3. Incompatible Key Fob

If you’re using a new or replacement key fob, it might not be compatible with your car’s make and model. Make sure to get the correct key fob for your vehicle by providing the dealership with your vehicle identification number (VIN).

4. Broken Locks

Sometimes, the issue might be with your car’s locks rather than the key fob. Broken locks can prevent your key fob from unlocking your car doors or engaging the locks. In this case, you’ll need a car lock repair or replacement.

5. Due To Deprogramming

Your key fob may have been accidentally deprogrammed, which can happen if certain button sequences are pressed. You might need to reprogram the key fob yourself or contact the dealership for help.

6. The Damaged Key

If your key fob has been physically damaged, such as from water or blunt force, it might not work properly. In this case, you’ll need a full key fob replacement or possibly just a housing replacement.

7. If Any Electrical Issue

Problems with your car’s electrical system can affect the functionality of your key fob. This might happen after service to your car where wires could have been damaged or disconnected. A car mechanic can help diagnose and fix these electrical problems.

What to Do If Key Fob Is Not Working:

These are the following things to follow:

1. Replace the key fob battery

If your key fob is not working, the battery might be dead.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Check your vehicle’s owner manual for the battery type.

Step 2: Open the key fob, remove the old battery, and insert the new one.

Step 3: Now, test that key fob to see its functions.

2. Check for physical damage

Inspect the key fob for any visible damage that may be causing it not to work.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Search for cracks, broken buttons, or water damage.

Step 2: If damage is found, consider replacing the housing or the entire key fob.

Step 3: Recheck the repaired or replaced key fob.

3. Clean the key fob contacts

Dirty or corroded contacts can cause the key fob to malfunction.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Open the key fob and locate the contact points.

Step 2: Clean the contacts with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol.

Step 3: Reassemble the key fob and test it.

4. Re-sync the key fob with your car

Your key fob might need to be re-synced with your car.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Check your owner’s manual or search online for the re-syncing process for your specific vehicle.

Step 2: Follow the instructions to re-sync your key fob.

Step 3: Again check if the key fob works.

5. Replace worn buttons

Worn buttons can cause the key fob to not function properly.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Inspect the buttons for wear and tear.

Step 2: If necessary, replace the buttons or the entire key fob.

Step 3: Finally, check the repaired or replaced key fob.

6. Check the car’s receiver

Your car’s receiver might be causing the issue.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Consult a professional mechanic or dealership to diagnose the problem.

Step 2: If needed, have them repair or replace the receiver.

Step 3: Try the key fob to see if it does work again.

7. Reprogram the key fob

Your key fob may need to be reprogrammed.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Check your owner’s manual or search online for reprogramming instructions for your specific vehicle.

Step 2: Follow the instructions to reprogram your key fob.

Step 3: Again check the key fob to see if it functions.

8. Test with a spare key fob

If you have a spare key fob, test it to see if it does work.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Try using the spare key fob to lock and unlock your car.

Step 2: If the spare works, consider replacing the non-working key fob.

Step 3: If the spare doesn’t work, the issue may be with the car, not the key fob.

9. Check for broken locks

Broken locks can prevent your key fob from working.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Inspect your car’s locks for any signs of damage.

Step 2: If necessary, have a professional repair or replace the locks.

10. Fix Car’s Electrical System

A problem with your car’s electrical system may be affecting your key fob.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Check for other electrical issues, such as non-functioning lights or horns.

Step 2: If you find other electrical problems, consult a car mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue.

Step 3: Now, test the key fob to see if it works after the electrical system is fixed.

11. Loose internal connections

Loose connections inside the key fob can cause it to malfunction.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Open the key fob carefully and inspect the internal connections.

Step 2: If you find any loose connections, reattach them or consult a professional for assistance.

Step 3: Reassemble the key fob and test it.

12. Replace the key fob’s circuit board

A damaged circuit board can cause the key fob to not work.

🔴 Steps To Follow:

Step 1: Open the key fob and inspect the circuit board for any visible damage.

Step 2: If you find damage, replace the circuit board or the entire key fob.

Step 3: Retest repaired or replaced key fob.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why won’t my key fob work after I changed the battery?

Your key fob may not work after changing the battery if it was not inserted correctly if the battery is faulty, or if the key fob was accidentally deprogrammed. Check the battery placement and try reprogramming the key fob if needed.

2. Can I fix a key fob myself?

In some cases, you can fix a key fob yourself by replacing the battery, cleaning the contacts, or reprogramming it. However, if the issue is more complex or involves internal damage, you may need the help of a professional dealership.

3. How do I reset my key fob?

To reset your key fob, you’ll need to reprogram it. Check your owner’s manual or search online for the specific reprogramming process for your vehicle make & model.

4. How do I check my key fob battery?

To check your key fob battery, open the key fob and inspect the battery for corrosion or leakage. You can also test the key fob’s functionality by locking and unlocking your car. If the key fob is not working properly, try replacing the battery.

5. How long do key fob batteries last?

Key fob batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years, depending on usage. However, some batteries may wear out sooner or last longer based on factors like temperature, humidity, and the quality of the battery.

6. Do I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?

Usually, you don’t need to reprogram your key fob after changing the battery. However, if your key fob is not working after replacing the battery, you might need to reprogram it.

7. How do I know if my key fob battery is weak?

Signs of a weak key fob battery include reduced range, intermittent functionality, or the need to press buttons multiple times for them to work. If you notice any of these signs, consider replacing the battery.

8. How much does a key fob battery cost?

Key fob batteries typically cost between $3 and $10, depending on the battery type and where you purchase it. You can find key fob batteries at automotive stores, big-box retailers, or online.

9. Can I start my car with a dead key fob?

In some vehicles, you can start your car with a dead key fob by using a backup key or an emergency key slot, usually located on the steering column or in the center console. Check your owner’s manual for details on starting your car with a dead key fob.

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