Car Remote Key Repair
Modern remotes for cars are useful and convenient, however they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. Thankfully, there are some simple fixes that are able to bring them working again.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. They are affordable and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
Your car key remote has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If the board is damaged the key fob won't work correctly. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require a professional auto-locksmith or your car dealer.
The majority of remote key fobs powered by a lithium-ion coin battery, which has an extended shelf life. However they won't last for a long time. Change the batteries could solve your issue, especially those who have had them for a long time. You may be surprised if you've been using your remote for some time and the buttons don't respond at all. This can happen even if the batteries are new. Since the buttons on your key fob are subject to lots of rubbing, they can sometimes break or become inactive over time. If this is the case removal of the buttons, cleaning them, and placing them back in place will usually resolve the problem.
If your remote's buttons don't work, you may have to re-program it to work with the system in your vehicle. This is usually done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. The method will vary based on the model and make, but you will be able to locate instructions online or contact a professional for assistance.
If the key fob has a plastic exterior, it's possible to remove the cover and then pry it apart. But be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. This is best done using needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue can aid in grabbing delicate parts. It's also a good idea to employ an automotive locksmith take care of this, as improper techniques could damage the electronic components inside. Trying to forcefully pry the fob apart could break the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally cut off the buttons that are connected to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips can malfunction if you've previously been able to start the car with the remote key, but you cannot do it again. This is because the key relies on the tiny electronic component to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to let it know that your key is valid and you'll be able start the vehicle. If the chip fails to correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older vehicles, but can also happen in newer ones as well. This is because the transponder chip may wear out over time. This part can be replaced by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some instances, the chip in your key may be completely dead. In this case the dealer will need to replace it. This is the most expensive but essential option to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip is damaged. This means that it will not communicate with the immobilizer. This can occur when the battery is replaced or it can occur if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa locksmith for cars can repair this, however it may be necessary to go to the dealership if you need to get your key reprogrammed.
If you're having issues with your remote key you should first try a backup. If this doesn't resolve the problem, you should take apart the key fob and perform an examination. You should make sure that there are no buttons that appear to be broken or loose. These parts see lots of use and can easily be lost over time. If they are loose, it's best to get them soldered back in place by an experienced professional. In a lot of cases, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is particularly applicable to keys that are accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is not working after you've tried a new one, it could be due to other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, including ones that connect to battery terminals in the remote, may also be broken or disconnected. You may have to reprogram your key fob if do not have a spare similar type and model.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to work with your car and ensure that only you have the ability to unlock the car's doors. It's a necessary step to safeguard your vehicle and to prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause problems with its electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the programming and stop your key fob from working. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogram your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue is in the buttons that are a much simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs often come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or loosen up over time. If you see that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you might need to adjust them manually.
Open the key fob to inspect it, but be cautious. Certain key fobs don't have an easy release mechanism. You might require a small tool or screwdriver to pry them apart. Certain fobs are sealed and are not openable without special tools. You'll need to take them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob that is the same model and brand to enter the programming mode of your car. This could require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off lights and electronics, and press a series of buttons in an order that is specific to your vehicle.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't work or need to be press very hard to work it could be the result of mechanical damage. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object may alter the way it functions. If this happens, you'll need to remove the key fob and inspect it thoroughly to see whether any buttons appear to be damaged or out of their place. A locksmith can repair it for you if that's the case.
view it now of buttons can be caused by dirt or debris that has accumulated between the buttons. Clean your key fob with an swab of cotton that has been immersed in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface on the keys. It is also important to determine if the problem is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, think about using the keys in a different vehicle to see if they work also.
The condition of the battery will determine whether or not you should reprogram the key fob. If the key fob you have is not able to function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery may be damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too many times while out of range or disconnecting your car battery could also erase the programming of an electronic key fob.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to your car. It will depend on the specific car model, but you'll generally need to lock and unlock the doors manually, insert the key into the ignition, turn it to accessory, then hit the remote that is wireless. If this is working, the exterior and/or interior lights should light up. You can then retest your key fob to ensure that it is programmed with the vehicle. In rare cases the key fob might stop working due to problems with the door lock.