Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient but they can be frustrating if they stop working. There are some quick solutions to get them back in operation.
The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs utilize lithium coin cells, which are inexpensive and readily available.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will stop working in the event that this board is damaged. Unlike battery failure, which is generally quite easy for most drivers to fix at home damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will require a professional auto locksmith or dealer for your car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries, which have a reasonably long lifespan, but they won't last for long. If you've used the batteries for a long period of time replacing them could solve your problem. You may be surprised when you've been using your remote for a while and the buttons do not respond at all. This can happen even in the case of batteries that are new. Since the buttons on your key fob are subject to frequent jolts and can break or become inactive over time. In this case, removing and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't working, you might require reprogramming it to work with the car's system. This is usually done by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are shut. This will depend on the make and model of your car, but you can find instructions on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob has a plastic exterior it is possible to remove the cover and pull it apart. However, be careful not to damage buttons or other internal components. The best tool for this is pliers with needle-nose tips with longer tips, which will more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating pliers using putty, super glue or melted tallow can aid in grabbing delicate parts. It's also a good idea to employ an automotive locksmith take care of this, as improper methods could damage the electronic components inside. If you try to forcefully break the fob apart could break the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally break any buttons that are attached to it.
Faulty transponder chip
If you've been able to start your car using the remote key, but not again, it could indicate that there is a problem with your transponder chip. This is because the key relies on the tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to notify it that your key is in good condition, and you'll be able to begin the vehicle. If the chip fails to transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older cars however, it can happen in newer ones as well. The transponder chip wears down over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this component of your key, however this could be costly.
In certain cases, the chip in your key may be completely dead. In this case the dealer will need to replace it. This is the most costly but essential option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip in your key has become corrupted, which means it no longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This could happen when the battery is replaced or if your key is physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this problem, but you may have to visit the dealer to have your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key, the first thing you need to do is to create an alternative. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can disassemble the key fob to conduct a visual inspection. Make sure all buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These parts are often used and may become loose over time. If they're loose it's best to get them soldered back in place by a professional. In a lot of cases, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally put into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a new battery and the key fob doesn't function, there could be other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water or dropped or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, such as ones that connect to battery terminals of the remote, can also be damaged or disconnected. remote key repairs may have to reprogram your key fob if don't have a replacement that is the same model and type.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you can unlock the car doors. It's a crucial step to safeguard your vehicle and prevent others from being able to use your key fob to gain access to your car or cause problems with its electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear can alter the programming and prevent your key fob from working. It's important to have your key fob reprogrammed properly by a professional who has the proper equipment.
It's possible that the problem is with the buttons and is an easier fix than replacing the whole key fob. Often, key fobs have rubberized buttons that are jostled around all the time, and may break or loosen. If you see that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you might be able to manually adjust them.
Open the fob key to look at it, but take care. Certain key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You may require a small tool or screwdriver to pry them apart. Some fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without the use of specialized tools. You'll have to go to a professional to have them professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same model and make to start the programming mode of your car. This could require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off lights and electronic devices, and then press a set of buttons in a sequence that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be the cause if your key fob's buttons do not function or require pressing them extremely in a very forceful manner. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object may alter the way it works. If this is the case you'll have to take the key fob apart and carefully see if any buttons appear to be damaged or are out of the right place. A locksmith can fix it for you if this is the case.
Dirt or crud can also cause buttons to fail. You should clean your key fob with a cotton swab that has been submerged in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface of the keys. It is also important to determine if the problem is with the locks of your car or with the key fob itself. If you don't have an additional key fob to test, consider trying the keys on another vehicle to see if they work also.
The condition of the battery will determine whether or not you should change the programming of the key fob. If your key fob fails to function after replacing the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. You can also reset your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too many times when you're out of range, or by disconnecting the battery in your car.
If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to your car. It will depend on your specific car model, but you'll typically need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Simply insert the key into the ignition, turn it to accessory, and press a button on the wireless remote. If this is successful the exterior and/or interior lights should flash. You can then retest your key fob to confirm that it is successfully programmed with your vehicle. In rare instances the key fob could not function due to a problem with the door lock.