Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, however they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. There are a few easy fixes to get them back in operation.
First, you should replace the battery. Most fobs use lithium coin cells, which are affordable and easy to find.
Broken Electronics
The remote car key you have an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob won't function in the event that this board is damaged. Unlike battery failure, which is typically very simple for most drivers to fix at home damage to the receiver or transmitter of your remote key will probably require a professional locksmith or your dealer in the car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a decent time-to-life, but won't last for long. Changing the batteries will likely solve the issue, particularly if you've had them for a while. If you've been using your remote fob for a long period of time and you're surprised to discover that the buttons aren't responding in any way, even if the batteries are fresh. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot of jostling and can break or become unresponsive with time. If this is the case removal of the buttons and cleaning them before placing them back in place will usually resolve your issue.
If the buttons on your remote aren't working, you might need to reprogramme it to work with the car's system. This is usually done by turning the key in the ignition several times while the doors are closed. The procedure will differ based on the car's model and make, but you can find instructions online or contact an expert for assistance.
If the key fob is made of a plastic exterior it is possible to take off the cover and then pry it off. Be cautious not to damage any buttons or internal components. This is best done with needle-nosed pliers which have longer tips. automotive key repair are able to easily grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow, or putty can help them grip delicate components. It's also a good idea to employ an automotive locksmith take care of this, since improper techniques could damage the electronic components inside. The plastic could be damaged if you try to remove the fob with force. It's also possible any buttons connected to it could be ripped off accidentally if forcefully pull it apart.
Faulty transponder chip
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously successfully started the car using the remote key but cannot do it again. This is because the key relies upon the tiny electronic component to communicate with immobilizer system. It signals the system that your key is valid and you should be able to start the engine. If the chip does not correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This problem is more common in older vehicles, but can also happen in newer ones also. This is because the transponder chip may wear out over time. It is possible to have a car locksmith replace this portion of your key, but this can be expensive.
In certain situations, your chip may be dead. If this is the situation, it's going to need to be replaced by an authorized dealer. This is the most costly but necessary option to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip is damaged. This means that it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen when the battery is replaced or it can occur if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can fix this issue, but you may have to visit the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key the first thing to do is to create a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, disassemble your key fob to perform a visual examination. It is important to ensure that none of the buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These components see a lot of use and can easily be jostled loose over time. If they're loose, it's a good idea to have them re-soldered by an experienced professional. This will often make your key fob. This is particularly applicable to keys that are accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a brand new battery, but the key fob doesn't work, there could be other issues. Fobs are damaged by water, dropping them or stepping on them, and the internal connections, such as those that connect the battery terminals in the remote, may also be broken or disconnected. It's possible to reset the key fob and this is something you can do by yourself if have a spare fob from the same model and make.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to match the vehicle to ensure that only you are able to unlock the doors of your car. It's a crucial step to safeguard your car and to prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access your car or cause problems with the electrical system. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear can cause problems with the programming of your key fob. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogramme your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue lies with the buttons and is an more straightforward solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs often come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or lose their elasticity over time. If you're able to determine that the buttons aren't damaged, you could try adjusting them manually.
Open the key fob to inspect it, but be cautious. Certain key fobs don't have an easy release mechanism. You may need an instrument or screwdriver to remove them. Some are sealed and can't be opened at all without special tools, so you'll likely have to take it to a dealership to have it professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same make and model to access the programming mode of your car. This may require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off the lights and electronics, and press a series of buttons in a sequence that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage may be the reason if your key fob's buttons aren't working or require pressing them extremely hard. The key fob's functionality can be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting an item with a sharp item. If this is the case, you'll need to remove the key fob and carefully see whether any of the buttons appear to be damaged or out of place. If that is the situation, a locksmith will fix it for you.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. You should clean your key fob using an swab of cotton that has been submerged in alcohol. You may also need to clean the surfaces of the keys. It is also important to determine if the problem is related to the locks on your vehicle or the key fob itself. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, consider using the keys on a different vehicle to see if they function similarly.
The decision of whether or not the key fob should be reprogrammed depends 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 could be damaged. You can also reset your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you are not in range or disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob does not work after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to the car. This will depend on the vehicle model 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, turn it to the accessory position and then press a button on the remote. If this is working, the exterior and/or interior lights should light up. Then, you can test your key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed with the vehicle. In more rare cases the key fob may stop working if there is an issue with the door locks themselves.