Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful but they can be frustrating if they stop working. Thankfully, there are some simple fixes that are able to bring them back in operation.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and easy to locate.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If this board is damaged, the key fob will not perform as it should. Contrary to battery failure, which is generally quite easy for most drivers to repair at home, damage to the receiver or transmitter of your remote key will probably require a professional auto locksmith or your dealer in the car.
Most remote key fobs are powered by a lithium-ion coin battery, which has a long shelf life. However they won't last for long. If you've used the batteries for a long time replacing them is likely to solve your issue. You may be surprised when you've used your remote for some time and the buttons aren't responding in any way. This is the case even when the batteries are brand new. The buttons on your keyfob are exposed to a lot of jostling and may break or become unresponsive over time. In try what she says , taking off and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to fix the problem.
If your remote's buttons aren't working, you might need to reprogram it to match the system of your car. This is usually done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are closed. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, however you can find the instructions on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can remove the cover by pulling it open. But be careful not to damage buttons or other internal components. This is best done using a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow will help them grasp delicate components. This is something locksmiths in the automotive industry can use, since improper methods could cause damage to the electronics. Trying to forcefully pry the fob apart could cause damage to the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally snap off any buttons that are attached to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips may fail if you've previously been able to start the vehicle using the remote key, but you haven't been able to do it again. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to inform it that your key is valid and you'll be able start your vehicle. If the chip isn't able to transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older vehicles, but it can also occur in modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears out over time. It is possible to have a car locksmith replace this part of your key, however it can be costly.
In some cases the chip inside your key could be dead. In this situation the dealer will have to replace it. This will be the most expensive option but it is usually required to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip inside the key has become damaged that means it no longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen when the battery is replaced, or it can occur if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa locksmith for cars can solve this issue, but it may be necessary to go to the dealership in order to have your key reprogrammed.
If you're having problems with your remote key, the first thing you need to consider is a backup. If this doesn't fix the issue, disassemble your key fob and perform an inspection. Make sure that no buttons are loose or damaged. These parts are used a lot and can become loose over time. If they are loose it is best to get them reattached by an experienced professional. This can often restore the functionality of your key fob. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally put in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is not working after you've tried a different one, it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping on them, and internal connections, such as the ones that connect the battery terminals inside the remote, may be broken or disconnected. It's possible to change the programming of the key fob, and this is something you can tackle on your own if you have a spare fob of the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to work with your vehicle and ensure that only you have the ability to unlock the car's doors. This is a crucial step to secure your vehicle and stop others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system issues. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear can alter the programming and prevent your key fob from working. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogram your key fob properly.
It's possible that the problem is with the buttons, which is a much easier fix than replacing the whole key fob. Key fobs usually have rubberized buttons which can be damaged or loosen over time. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you may be able to manually adjust them.
It's best to open up the fob that you're using to look at it, but be aware. Certain fobs do not have an easy release mechanism, which means you may require a small screwdriver or another tool to pry them apart. Some are sealed and cannot be opened with specialized tools, so you'll likely have to go to a dealership to have it professionally opened. You can utilize a spare keyfob of the same make and model to enter the programming mode of your car. It may require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off lights and electronics, and press a set of buttons in an order that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't work or require being pressed very hard to work, it could be because of mechanical damage. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object can impact the way it works. It is necessary to remove the key fob, then look over it to determine whether there are any buttons that look damaged. A locksmith can fix it for you if that's the case.
Failure of buttons could be caused by dirt or crud that is trapped between the buttons. It is crucial to clean your keys frequently using the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. It is also possible to clean the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the issue lies with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't own a spare key, try the keys in another vehicle to see if the problem is solved.
The condition of the battery will determine whether or not you have to reprogram the key fob. If your key fob is unable to operate after you replace the batteries, it probably means that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. You can also deprogram your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you're out of range, or by disconnecting the battery in your car.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery you need to re-programme it to your vehicle. It will depend on the vehicle model, but generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the car's doors and then insert the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position, and then push the button on the remote. Usually the exterior and interior lights will flash when this has worked. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is programmed to the vehicle. In less rare cases, a key fob can stop working if there is an issue with the door locks themselves.