Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful but they can be frustrating if they stop functioning. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that can usually get them back in operation.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board that is in your remote car key transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will stop working when the board is damaged. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith professional or your dealer in your car.
The majority of remotes that use key fobs have lithium ion coin batteries, that have a long shelf life but will not last for a long time. Change the batteries could solve your issue, especially if you've had them for a long time. You may be surprised if you've been using your remote for some time and the buttons aren't responding at all. This can happen even if the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot jostling and may break or become inactive with time. If this is the case, removing the buttons and cleaning them before placing them back in place will usually resolve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote aren't working, you might need to reprogram it to match the system of your vehicle. This is typically accomplished by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. The process will vary depending on your car's model and make, but you should be able to find instructions online or consult a professional for help.
If the key fob is made of plastic you can take off the cover by prying it apart. Be careful not to damage the buttons or internal components. The best tool for this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which can more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating the pliers with 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, as improper techniques could cause damage to the electronic components within. The plastic may break in the event that you forcefully pry apart the fob. It's also possible that the buttons connected to it could be ripped off accidentally if forcefully pull it apart.
Faulty transponder chip
If you've been able to start your car with the remote key, but it's not working ever again, it could be a sign of a problem with the transponder chip. This is because your key relies on this tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to inform it that your key is in good condition, and you should be able begin the vehicle. If the chip doesn't correctly transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable the vehicle.
This problem is more common in older vehicles, but it can also be found in newer vehicles. The transponder chip wears out over time. The chip can be replaced by a car locksmith however it is costly.
In some instances the chip in your key might be dead. If this is the scenario, the chip will need to be replaced by an authorized dealer. This is the most expensive option but it is usually required to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip inside your key has become corrupted and it is unable to longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. key repairs can happen when the battery is replaced, or it can occur when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa locksmith for cars can fix this, but it might be necessary to visit the dealer for your key programmed again.
If you're having problems with your remote key, the first thing you need to try is backup. If this doesn't fix the problem, you should take apart your key fob and conduct an examination. Make sure all buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These parts are often used and can become loose over time. It is best to have them soldered in place by a professional in case they're loose. This is often a way to restore the functionality of your key fob. key repair near me is especially applicable to keys that were accidentally put in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a new battery, but the key fob still won't work, there could be other issues. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping over them, and internal connections, such as those that connect the battery terminals in the remote, may also be damaged or disconnected. You may have to reprogram your key fob if don't have a spare that is the same kind and model.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the vehicle to ensure that only you are able to unlock the doors of your car. It's a must to protect your car and keep others from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause issues with the electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear can corrupt the programming of your key fob. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogramme your key fob properly.
It's possible that the problem lies with the buttons, which is a much easier fix than replacing the whole key fob. Key fobs often feature rubberized buttons that can be damaged or loosen over time. If you see that the buttons don't appear to be damaged, you might be able to manually adjust them.
Open the key fob to inspect it, but be careful. Certain key fobs don't have a simple release mechanism. You may require an instrument or screwdriver to pry them apart. Some are sealed and cannot be opened without the use of specialized tools. You'll likely need to bring it to a dealer to have it opened professionally. You can use a spare keyfob that is the same model and brand to start the programming mode of your car. It may require you to shut and lock the doors, turn on and off lights as well as electronics, and then press a set of buttons in a sequence that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame when the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require you to press them in a very forceful manner. Dropping the key fob on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object can impact the way it works. You'll need take apart the key fob and look at it to determine if there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. If that is the case, a locksmith could fix it for you.
Dirt or crud can also cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob with an swab of cotton that has been submerged in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface on the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have a spare key, you can try the keys in a different vehicle to determine if it works.
If the key fob should be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of the battery. If your key fob doesn't function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too many times while you're out of range or disconnecting your car battery could also deprogram an electric key fob.
If the key fob still not functioning after replacing the battery, be able to reprogramme it with the car. This will be dependent on the particular model of vehicle, but generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car and then insert the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position, and then press a button on the remote. If this is successful, the exterior and/or interior lights should flash. You can then retest your key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed with the vehicle. In less rare cases the key fob may not function if there is an issue with the door locks themselves.