Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient but they can be frustrating if they stop working. There are a few easy fixes to get them back in operation.
First, try replacing the battery. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are affordable and easy to find.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board inside your remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your car. If the board is damaged, the key fob will not function properly. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith professional or your dealer in your car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long lifespan, but they won't last forever. Changing the batteries will likely solve the issue, particularly those who have had them for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a long period of time, you might be surprised to find that the buttons aren't responding in any way, even if the batteries are new. Because the buttons on your key fob undergo lots of rubbing and can break or become unresponsive over time. In this case, removing and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote aren't working, you might require reprogramming it to work with the car's system. This is usually done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are closed. This will depend on the model and make of your vehicle, but you can locate the steps on the internet or consult a professional.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can take off the cover by tearing it apart. Be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. The best tool for this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which can more easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow can aid in grabbing delicate parts. This is something an automotive locksmith could use, since improper methods could damage the electronic components. car key fob repairs could be damaged if you try to take the fob apart with force. It's also possible that any buttons that are attached to it may break off accidentally if you forcefully pull it apart.
Faulty transponder chip
If you've managed to start your car with the remote key, but not the next time, it could indicate that there is a problem with your transponder chip. This is because your key relies on this small electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system that your key is valid and you are able to start the engine. If the chip is unable to properly transmit this message, the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This issue is common in older vehicles However, it can occur in more modern models too. This is because the transponder chip wears out over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this portion of your key, but it can be costly.
In some cases the chip in your key could be dead. In this situation the dealer will need to replace it. This is the most expensive but necessary option to get your vehicle back on the road.
The other possibility is that the chip in your key has become corrupted, which means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This could happen if the battery is changed or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can fix this issue, but you may need to visit the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you're having problems with your remote key the first thing you should do is to create backup. If this does not solve the issue, you should disassemble the key fob to perform a visual examination. Make sure none of the buttons appear to be broken or loose. These components are frequently used and may become loose over time. It's best to have them welded in place by a professional in case they're loose. This will often bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is especially applicable to keys that were accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is still not working even after you've tried a new one it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs are damaged by water, dropping them or stepping on them, and internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals in the remote, could be broken or disconnected. You may need to reprogram your key fob if you don't have a replacement that is the same model and type.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car doors. It's a must to safeguard your vehicle and prevent others from using your key fob to gain access your vehicle or cause problems with its electrical system. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear can corrupt the programming of your key fob. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob properly.
It's possible that the issue could be with the buttons themselves and this could be a more straightforward fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs often feature rubberized buttons that can be damaged or lose their elasticity over time. If you notice that the buttons don't appear to be damaged, you might want to adjust them manually.
Open the fob key to look at it, but be careful. Certain key fobs do not have an easy release mechanism. You may need a screwdriver or small tool to break them. Some are sealed and can't be opened 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 that is the same make and model to enter the programming mode of your car. Depending on the car you drive it could involve closing and locking the doors, turning the lights and electronic devices on and off and pressing a certain set of buttons in a specific sequence.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't work or need to be press very hard to perform it could be because of mechanical damage. The functionality of the key fob could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting the button with a sharp object. It is necessary to remove the key fob and carefully look over it to determine whether there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. If that is the situation, a locksmith will repair it for you.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob with the help of a cotton swab which has been soaked in alcohol. You may also need to clean the surface of the keys. You should also try to determine if the issue is related to the locks on your vehicle or the key fob itself. If you don't have an extra key, try the keys in another vehicle to see if it works.
Whether or not the key fob should be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of the battery. If your keyfob does not work 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 many times when you are out of range, or by disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob is still not working after replacing the battery, have it reprogrammed by your vehicle. It will depend on the type of vehicle, but generally, you'll have to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car, insert the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position, and then push the button on the remote. Usually, the exterior and interior lights will light up if this is successful. Then, you can test your key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed with the vehicle. In rare cases, the key fob may not function due to an issue with the door locks.