Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, but they can be frustrating when they stop functioning. Fortunately, there are simple fixes that are able to bring them back in operation.
The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered with lithium coin cells. They are affordable and readily available.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board in your remote car key transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will cease to function if this board is damaged. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith who is a professional or a car dealer.
The majority of remote key fobs are powered by a lithium ion coin batteries, which have an extended shelf life. However they won't last for long. If you've used the batteries for a long period of time replacing them is likely to solve your issue. You might be shocked if you've been using your remote for a long time and the buttons do not respond at all. This is the case even in the case of batteries that are new. The buttons on your keyfob will be subjected to a lot jostling and can break or become inactive with time. If this happens taking them off, cleaning them, and reseating them will often resolve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote not working, you might have to program it again to match the system of your car. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are shut. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, however you can find instructions on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob has an exterior made of plastic it is possible to remove the cover and pull it apart. However, be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to use to accomplish this is pliers with needle-nose tips with longer tips, which can more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow can aid in grabbing delicate parts. It's also a good idea to employ an auto locksmith perform this, as improper methods can damage the electronics inside. If you try to forcefully break the fob apart could damage the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally break any buttons attached to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
If you've been able to start your car successfully using the remote key, but not the next time, it could indicate a problem with the transponder chip. This is because the key relies on a tiny electronic component to communicate with immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to let it know that your key is valid and you should be able start your vehicle. If the chip fails to correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This problem is more common in older vehicles, but it can also occur in newer vehicles. The transponder chip wears down over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this component of your key, however it can be costly.
In certain cases the chip in your key might be dead. In this instance the dealer will need to replace it. This will be the most expensive option, however, it is often required to get your car back on the road.
The other possibility is that the chip in your key has become corrupted and it is unable to longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen if the battery is changed or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa car locksmith can sometimes solve this issue, but it might be necessary to visit the dealer for your key reprogrammed.
If you're having issues with your remote key, you should first try a backup. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can disassemble your key fob to examine it visually. Verify that nothing on the button appears to be loose or damaged. These components see a lot of use and can easily be jostled loose over time. It's best to have them welded in place by an expert in case they're loose. In a lot of cases, this will restore your key fob to full functionality. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a brand new battery but the key fob doesn't work, there may be other issues. Fobs may be damaged by water or dropped or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, including those that connect to battery terminals of the remote, can also be damaged or disconnected. It's possible to change the programming of the key fob, and this may be something you can accomplish on your own if you have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you can unlock the car doors. This is a crucial step to secure your vehicle and to prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause electrical system malfunctions. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear, could cause a problem with the programming of your key fob. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob properly.
It's also possible that the problem could be with the buttons themselves, which can be a more straightforward solution than replacing the entire key fob. Often, key fobs have rubberized buttons that get jostled around all the time, and can break or become loose. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you might need to adjust them manually.
Open the fob that you are using to examine it, but be careful. Some key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You may need an instrument or screwdriver to pry them apart. Some fobs are sealed, and are not openable without special tools. You'll need to go to a dealer to get them professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and manufacturer you want to use it, try using it to access the mode of programming for your car. This may require you to shut and lock the doors, turn on and off lights and electronic devices, and then press a series of buttons in a specific order specific to your car.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be the cause when the buttons on your key fob don't function or require you to press them very hard. The key fob's function could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object. If this is the case you'll have to take the key fob apart and carefully determine whether any buttons appear to be broken or out of place. If that is the case, a locksmith can repair it for you.
The accumulation of crud or dirt can cause buttons to fail. key repair should clean your key fob using an swab of cotton that has been submerged in alcohol. It is possible to clean the surface on the keys. You should also try to determine if the issue is with your car's locks or with the key fob itself. If you don't own a spare key, try using the keys of a different vehicle to determine if it works.
The condition of the battery will determine if you should change the programming of the key fob. If your key fob fails to operate after you replace the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery's terminal contacts are damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too often while out of range or disconnecting your car battery can also cause the deprogramming of an electronic key fob.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. It will depend on your specific car model, but you'll generally need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Insert the key into the ignition, change it to accessory, then press a button on the wireless remote. If this works, the exterior and/or interior lights should light up. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is successfully programmed with your vehicle. In rare instances the key fob might be inoperable due to an issue with the door locks.