Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient, but can be frustrating if they stop working. There are some quick solutions to get them working again.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are affordable and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If the board is damaged the key fob will not perform as it should. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith professional or your car dealer.
Most remote key fobs are powered by a lithium ion coin batteries, which have an extended shelf life. However they won't last for long. Changing the batteries will likely solve the issue, particularly when they've been in use for a while. If you've been using your remote fob for a while, you might be surprised to discover that the buttons aren't working at all, even when the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob will be subjected to a lot jostling and may break or become unresponsive with time. If this happens, removing the buttons, cleaning them, and replacing them can often solve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't working, you might need to reprogramme 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 your car's model and make however, you can find instructions online or consult a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of an exterior made of plastic it is possible to remove the cover and pry it apart. Be cautious not to damage the buttons or internal components. The best tool to use to accomplish this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow or putty will help them grip delicate components. It's also a good idea to have an automotive locksmith do this, as improper methods could cause damage to the electronic components inside. If you try to forcefully break the fob apart can cause damage to the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally break the buttons that are connected to it.
A defective transponder chip
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously successfully started the vehicle using the remote key, but you cannot do it again. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system that your key is legitimate and you should be able to start the engine. If the chip fails to transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
car remote key repair is more frequent in older cars however, it can happen in newer ones too. This is because the transponder chip can wear out over time. It is possible to hire a car locksmith replace this part of your key, however it can be costly.
In certain situations your chip could be dead. If this is the case, it will need to be replaced by a dealer. This is the most costly but necessary way to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the key's chip has become corrupted. This means it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This could happen if the battery is changed or if the key is physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can solve this issue, however you may need to visit the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you are having problems with your remote key, you must first attempt to backup your device. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you should disassemble the key fob to perform a visual examination. You should make sure that none of the buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These parts get a lot of use and can easily be moved around over time. It is best to have them put in place by a professional when they're loose. In many instances, this will return your key fob to full functionality. This is especially applicable to keys that have been accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob not working after you've tried a new one, it could be due to other problems. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping on them, and the internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may be broken or disconnected. It's possible to change the programming of the key fob, and it could be something you can accomplish yourself if you have a spare fob from the same model and brand.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match your vehicle and ensure that only you are able to unlock the car doors. This is a crucial step to protect your vehicle and prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system problems. 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 reprogramme your key fob properly.
It's also possible that the problem is with the buttons themselves which could be a simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons that get jostled around all the time, and may break or loosen. If you are able to see that the buttons aren't damaged, you can try adjusting them manually.
It is best to open the fob that you're using to look at it, but be cautious. Some fobs don't have an easy release mechanism, so you may need a screwdriver or another device to open them. Some are sealed and can't be opened at all without specialized tools, so you'll likely have to bring it to a dealer to have it opened professionally. If you have a spare key fob of the same model and manufacturer you want to use it, try using it to access the programming mode of your car. Depending on your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, switching the lights and electronics on and off, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a particular sequence.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame if the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require you to press them very in a very forceful manner. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object may affect how well it functions. It is necessary to remove the key fob and carefully look over it to determine whether there are any buttons that look damaged. A locksmith will fix it for you, if that's the case.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob using an swab of cotton that has been immersed in alcohol. You may also need to clean the surfaces of the keys. It is also important to determine if the problem is with the locks of your car or the key fob itself. If you don't own a spare key, you can try using the keys of a different vehicle to see if it works.
If the key fob needs to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of its battery. If the key fob you have is not able to function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. You can also deprogram your electronic key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you're out of range or disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob not working after replacing the battery, you should be able to reprogramme it with the car. This will depend on the type of vehicle and the type of key fob you have, but generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the car's doors by inserting the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position and then press a button on the remote. If this is working the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. You can then retest your key fob to confirm that it is successfully programmed with your vehicle. In rarer cases the key fob might stop working due to problems with the door lock.