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uk Transport & mobility emergencies key fob not working • car key fob stopped working • keyless entry not working • keyless start not working • push button start not detecting key • locked out of car key fob • can't unlock car with remote • can't start car with fob • dead key fob battery • flat car key battery • emergency key in key fob • hidden keyhole on door handle • car won't detect key • stranded in car park • roadside breakdown help • spare car key missing • car alarm triggered by manual key • smart key not responding

What to do if…
your key fob stops working and you can’t unlock or start your vehicle

Short answer

Get yourself to a safe, well-lit pause, then use the physical emergency key and your vehicle’s backup start method (often holding the fob against the start button). If you still can’t get in or start it, call your breakdown provider or a reputable locksmith rather than forcing entry.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t stay in an unsafe place to troubleshoot — move to a staffed, well-lit spot first (petrol station/shop) and work from there.
  • Don’t keep pressing the fob buttons repeatedly for minutes — it can drain a weak fob battery faster and increases stress.
  • Don’t try to “jimmy” the door with improvised tools (coat hangers, wedges, screwdrivers) — it commonly damages seals, wiring, airbags, or paint.
  • Don’t smash a window unless there’s an immediate safety emergency (for example, someone in the vehicle in distress).
  • Don’t accept help from a stranger who approaches offering “locksmith” services without checking identity and agreeing the total price first.

What to do now

  1. Get to a safer pause and protect your phone battery. Step into a nearby staffed place if you’re isolated, it’s dark, or you feel uneasy. If you feel threatened, call 999.
  2. Do a 30-second quick check.
    • Try your spare key/fob if you have one.
    • If the fob was dropped or got wet, assume it may have failed and move straight to manual entry + backup start.
  3. Use the physical emergency key to get into the car.
    • Most fobs have a hidden metal key that slides out.
    • The driver door key cylinder may be behind a small cover near the handle. Use the emergency key to release it if needed (avoid sharp tools that can scratch).
  4. If the alarm sounds after manual unlocking, keep it simple.
    • Get in, close the door, and try the backup start method below.
    • If the alarm doesn’t stop quickly once the vehicle recognises/disarms, stop repeatedly locking/unlocking and move to step 7 (call for help).
  5. Try the vehicle’s “backup start” method (works on many cars even with a dead fob battery).
    • Many push-button start cars can still read the fob’s chip when you hold the fob right against the start button while starting.
    • Some cars have a designated slot/pocket where the fob must be placed. If you’re unsure, check your handbook (paper copy at home, or any manufacturer handbook app/site you can access on your phone).
  6. If the car seems totally unpowered, consider the car’s 12V battery.
    • No interior lights and no dashboard response often points to a flat vehicle battery, which needs a jump/battery support rather than a fob fix.
  7. Call the right help and tell them exactly what you’re seeing.
    • Breakdown provider / insurer roadside assistance: ask for lockout assistance and/or battery help. Say: “keyless entry + push-button start; fob not working; car has/doesn’t have dash power.”
    • If you need a replacement key/fob urgently, contact your manufacturer/dealer or a service such as AA Key Assist (they can arrange replacement/cutting/programming depending on vehicle).
    • If using a locksmith: choose a reputable, local firm, confirm total cost before dispatch, and ask what proof of ownership they’ll require.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide today whether to replace the whole fob, reprogram keys, or change your breakdown policy.
  • You do not need to do roadside electronics troubleshooting beyond the steps above.
  • You can deal with prevention later (fresh spare battery, spare key plan, where the manual keyhole is) once you’re home.

Important reassurance

This is a common situation and it’s usually fixable with the emergency key plus the backup start method, or with a straightforward breakdown/locksmith call. The priority right now is your safety and getting unstuck — not diagnosing the exact cause.

Scope note

These are first steps to regain safe access/start and connect you with the right help. If the fob still won’t work afterwards, the next stage is non-urgent: replace the fob battery, check for damage/water ingress, and (if needed) arrange dealer or specialist key programming.

Important note

This is general information, not vehicle-specific mechanical or legal advice. Keyless systems vary by make/model/year; if anything would require force or uncertain disassembly, stop and use a breakdown service or reputable locksmith.

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