Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient but they can be frustrating when they stop functioning. There are fortunately, quick fixes that will usually bring them back in operation.
First, you should replace the battery. The majority of fobs utilize lithium coin cells, which are cheap and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board in your car key remote transmits and interprets signals for your vehicle. If this board is damaged, the key fob won't work correctly. In contrast to battery failure, which is generally very simple for most drivers to fix at home, damage to the receiver or transmitter of the remote key will require a professional locksmith or your car dealer.
The majority of remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin batteries which have a decent shelf life but will not last for a long time. If you've been using the batteries for a long time, changing them will probably solve your problem. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time and you're surprised to discover that the buttons aren't responding at all, even when the batteries are fresh. The buttons on your keyfob will be subjected to a lot of bouncing and can break or become unresponsive over time. In this case, removing and cleaning the buttons will usually solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't working, you might require reprogramming it to match your car's system. This is typically accomplished by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. The method will vary based on the model and make however, you can find instructions online or contact an expert for assistance.
If the key fob has an exterior made of plastic, it's possible to remove the cover and then pry it off. But be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow can help them grasp delicate parts. This is something that an automotive locksmith can use, since improper methods could cause damage to the electronic components. If you try to forcefully break the fob apart could damage the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally cut off any buttons that are connected to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
If you've managed to start your car with the remote key, but you're not able to do it ever again, it could be a sign of a problem with the transponder chip. This is because your key relies on this small electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to inform it that your key is valid, and you should be able begin the vehicle. If the chip is unable to correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer is disabled for your vehicle.
This issue is most frequent in older cars, but can also happen in modern vehicles as well. This is due to the transponder chip wears out over time. This part can be replaced by a car locksmith however, it can be costly.
In some instances the chip in your key may be completely dead. If this is the case, it will need to be replaced by an authorized dealer. This will be the most expensive option, however, it is often required to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip has become corrupted. This means it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen if the battery is changed or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this issue, however you may need to go to the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're having issues with your remote key, the first thing you need to do is to create an alternative. If this doesn't fix the issue, take apart the key fob and do an examination. You should make sure that none of the buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These parts are used a lot and may become loose as time passes. It is best to have them welded in place by a professional in case they're loose. In many instances, this will return your key fob to full functionality. This is particularly the case for keys that have been accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a new battery but the key fob still won't work, there may be other issues. Fobs are damaged by water, dropping them, or stepping on them, and internal connections, such as the ones that connect the battery terminals inside the remote, could be damaged or disconnected. It is possible to reprogram the key fob, and this may be something you can do on your own if you have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the car and ensure that only you can unlock the car's doors. This is a vital step to secure your vehicle and stop others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system problems. Certain engine error codes or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the programming and stop your key fob from functioning. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogramme your key fob in a proper manner.
It's possible that the issue could be with the buttons themselves which could be a more straightforward fix than replacing the entire key fob. Most key fobs feature rubberized buttons that are jostled around all the time, and can break or become loose. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged, you might try manually adjusting them.
Open the key fob to inspect it, but take care. Some fobs aren't equipped with an easy release mechanism, so you may need a screwdriver or some other tool to pry them apart. Others are sealed and can't be opened with specialized tools, so you'll likely need to bring it to a dealer to have it professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob from the same model and make use of it to enter the mode of programming for your car. This may require you to shut and lock the doors, switch on and off lights and electronics, and press a set of buttons in a specific order specific to your car.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not function or require to be pressed very hard to perform it could be because of mechanical damage. Dropping the key fob on concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object can impact the way it works. You'll need take apart the key fob, then look at it to determine if there are any buttons that appear to be broken. A locksmith will fix it for you if that's the case.
The failure of buttons can be caused by dirt or crud trapped between the buttons. It is recommended to clean your keys fob using a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. car remote key repair may need to clean the surface on the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue is related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't have an additional key fob to test, think about using the keys in a different vehicle to see if they function also.
The decision of whether or not the key fob should be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of the battery. If the key fob you have is not able to function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery may be damaged. You can also reset your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too many times when you are not in range or disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, you should have it reprogrammed to your vehicle. This will be dependent on the particular vehicle model however, generally, you'll have to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car, insert the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position, and then push a button on the remote. If this is working then the interior and exterior lights should light up. You can then retest your key fob to ensure that it is successfully programmed with the vehicle. In more rare cases keys can stop working if there is an issue with the door lock itself.