Q: Key fob won't unlock doors

asked by on January 30, 2016

When I press the key fob, I can't open the doors from the outside

Electrical components are not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi. If your FOB is not unlocking the doors, then the battery in the FOB may be bad. I would either replace the battery or try a spare FOB if you have one. If the battery does not help, then the FOB itself may be bad. It can also be a failure in the receiver module for the door locks. The only way to verify if this is functioning is with a computer scan tool that can communicate with that module. I would start with the battery and see if that takes care of it. If the battery does not help, then I would recommend the assistance of a certified mechanic, like one from YourMechanic, to inspect for other electrical issues.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car has oil in coolant
Hi there. Oil inside the coolant reservoir can mean you either have a cracked head, A blown head gasket, or a warped head, or all of the above. To be safe, I would not even recommend fixing the head. I...
Stuck in Park
The Aveo's computer needs to "see" the brake light switch input, in order to switch out of park. With the key on and engine off, the brake lights need to be checked to see if they are coming on when...
Car alarm not turning off
Have your battery tested. Most likely it is worn causing low system voltage to the rest of the cars computers. This will cause a number of issues - including problems that will set the alarm off unwarranted. If you need...
Trucks jerks erratically in 4th gear, about 50 mph.
Hello. This is a common problem when the throttle body sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement) is faulty or dirty. There should be just 4 bolts holding this in place. I would recommend cleaning and checking this first before diving into transmission diagnosis. Also...
The Check Engine Light came on after washing my Durango
It sound like you got water into some of the electrical connections from the water that is sprayed sideways and from the bottom of some of these car washes. Also, your car was running, which could cause the water to...
Loud noise under hood of my car when I brake.
Hi there. Typically this sound is an indication of brake pads that have worn out. The wear indicator on the pad is made of metal, so when it wear out and you apply the brakes, it drags along the rotor....
Loud sound when eccelaratjng.
Hello Hazel, thank you for writing in. When the noise is associated with acceleration, then the issue is likely exhaust, transmission, or engine related. There is also the option that the RPMs are reaching higher levels before the vehicle shifts....
I need a rack and pinion for my 2005 chevy silverado 1500, how much would that cost me
You can get a precise estimate by inputting your vehicle data into the "Get a Quote" panel at YourMechanic's power steering rack and pinion service page (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/steering-rack-gearbox-replacement). Broadly, though, to give you an idea of the cost, if you do...
Problem with battery light
Hi there. If you went to the auto parts store and they completed a scan and indicated a starter problem, then it is quite likely that the starter is NOT the problem. The procedure these companies use to diagnose a...

Related articles

5 Common Reasons Why Your Car Door Isn’t Locking Properly
Are your power locks keeping you from getting into your car, or locking it when you leave? You need to know what’s...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Volkswagen Routan
For For those who need a vehicle that focuses on people-moving and little else, the 2012 Volkswagen Routan just might hit the mark. With improved fuel economy and responsiveness compared to the Chrysler platform on which it is based, this...
What Does the Key Not in Vehicle Warning Light Mean?
The key not in vehicle warning light tells you when your key isn't detected in your car, so you don't drive off without it. It can be red or orange.