Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful but they can be frustrating if they stop functioning. There are some quick solutions to make them work again.
The first step is to replace the battery. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are affordable and readily available.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your car. The key fob won't function when the board is damaged. remote key repair to the transmitter or receiver will require an auto-locksmith who is a professional or a dealer in your car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long shelf life but will not last for long. If you've been using the batteries for a long time replacing them could solve the issue. You might be shocked if you have been using your remote for a while and the buttons do not respond in any way. This is true even in the case of batteries that are new. Because the buttons on your key fob get frequent jolts and can break or become unresponsive over time. If this happens, removing the buttons and cleaning them prior to reseating them will often resolve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote don't respond, you may need to reprogramme it to match the system of your car. This is usually done by turning the key in the ignition several times with the doors closed. The procedure will differ based on the car's make and model however, you will be able to locate instructions online or consult an expert for assistance.
If the key fob is made of a plastic exterior, it's possible to remove the cover and then pry it apart. However, be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. This is best done using needle-nosed pliers which have longer tips. They are able to grasp small components. Lubricating pliers using putty, melted tallow or super glue can help them grasp delicate components. This is something that locksmiths in the automotive industry can do, as incorrect methods could damage the electronics. The plastic may break if you try to forcefully pry apart the fob. It's also possible the buttons attached to it will snap off accidentally if you try to forcefully break it.
Chips in the transponder are defective.
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously been able to start the car with the remote key, but you are unable to do so again. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to inform it that your key is in good condition, and you'll be able begin the vehicle. If the chip isn't able to transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable the vehicle.
This issue is more prevalent in older vehicles, but it can also be found in modern vehicles. This is because the transponder chip may wear out over time. The chip can be replaced by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some instances the chip may be dead. In this case, the dealer will have to replace it. This is the most expensive but necessary option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip inside your key has been damaged that means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen if the battery is replaced or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa locksmith for cars can repair this, however it might be necessary to go to the dealership for your key programmed once more.
If you're having problems with your remote key the first thing to consider is an alternative. If this doesn't solve the problem, you should take apart the key fob and perform an examination. Make sure all buttons appear to be broken or loose. These parts get lots of use and can easily be jostled loose over time. If they are loose, it's a good idea to have them re-soldered by an experienced professional. In most cases, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is especially the case for keys that have been accidentally placed into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a fresh battery, but the key fob still won't function, there could be other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, such as those that connect to battery terminals in the remote, can also be damaged or disconnected. It's possible to change the programming of the key fob, and this may be something you can accomplish by yourself if have a spare fob from the same model and make.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and ensure that only you are able to open the doors of your car. It's a necessary step to protect your car and prevent others from being able to use your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause problems with the electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or wear and tear from normal wear and tear could corrupt the programming and stop your key fob from functioning. It is crucial to have your key fob reprogrammed correctly by a professional with the proper equipment.
It's possible that the issue lies with the buttons and is an more straightforward fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons which can be damaged or loosen up over time. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged, you could try adjusting them manually.
It's best to open up the fob that you're using to look at it, but be careful. Some key fobs do not have an easy release mechanism. You may need an instrument or screwdriver to remove them. Some fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without the use of specialized tools. You'll need to take them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same model and brand to access the programming mode of your car. Based on the model of your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, switching the lights and electronics on and off and pressing a certain set of buttons in a particular sequence.
Failing car key fob repairs
If your key fob has buttons that do not work or need to be press very hard to work it could be the result of mechanical damage. The functionality of the key fob could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting an item with a sharp item. You'll have to dismantle the key fob and carefully examine it to see whether there are any buttons that appear to be broken. A locksmith will fix it for you, if that's the case.
Dirt or crud can also cause buttons to fail. You should clean your key fob using a cotton swab 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 issue is with the locks of your car or the key fob itself. If you don't have a spare key, try the keys in a different vehicle to see if it works.
The decision of whether or not the key fob requires to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of its battery. If your key fob is unable to operate after you replace the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery's terminal contacts are damaged. You can also deprogram your electronic key fob by pressing the buttons too frequently when you are out of range or disconnecting the battery in your car.
If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to the car. It will depend on the particular type of vehicle and the type of key fob you have, but generally, you'll have 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 push the remote button. Usually the interior and exterior lights will flash when this method has worked. It is then possible to test your key fob to verify that it is successfully programmed with the vehicle. In rarer cases the key fob might not function due to a problem with the door lock.