Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient, but can be frustrating when they stop functioning. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that can usually get them back up and running.
First, you should replace the battery. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are affordable and readily available.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board in your remote car key transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't work correctly. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require a professional auto-locksmith or your car dealer.
The majority of remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin batteries which have a decent shelf life but will not last forever. If you've been using batteries for a long time replacing them could solve the issue. You may be surprised if you've been using your remote for a long time and the buttons do not respond in any way. This is true even when the batteries are brand new. Since the buttons on your key fob get frequent jolts, they can sometimes fail or cease to function over time. In this instance, removing and cleaning the buttons will usually fix the problem.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't responding, you may have to change the programming to match your car's system. This is typically done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but you can find the instructions on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can remove the cover by tearing it off. Be careful not to scratch the buttons or internal components. This is best done with a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to easily grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow, or putty can assist them to grasp delicate components. It's recommended to employ an auto locksmith perform this, as improper techniques could damage the electronic components within. repair car key remote to forcefully pull the fob apart could damage the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally cut off the buttons that are attached to it.
Faulty transponder chip
If you've been able 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 upon 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'll be able start your vehicle. If the chip doesn't correctly transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable your vehicle.
This issue is most frequent in older cars, but can also happen in modern vehicles also. This is because the transponder chip can wear out over time. It is possible to hire a car locksmith replace this component of your key, but this could be costly.
In certain cases the chip inside your key may be completely dead. If this is the scenario, the chip will need to be replaced by an auto dealer. This is the most expensive option but is often necessary in order to get your car back on the road.
The other possibility is that the chip inside the key has become damaged, which means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen when the battery is replaced or if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa car locksmith can sometimes fix this, but it may be necessary to visit a dealership in order to have your key programmed again.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key, you should first try a backup. If this doesn't fix the issue, take apart the key fob and conduct an examination. Check that none of the button appears to be loose or damaged. These parts are often used and can loosen as time passes. If they are loose it is recommended to have them re-soldered by an expert. This will often make your key fob. This is especially the case for keys that are accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a brand new battery and the key fob still won't work, there may be other issues. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping on them, and the internal connections, such as those that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may be broken or disconnected. It's possible that you need to reset the key fob and this may be something you can accomplish on your own if you have a spare fob from the same model and make.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match the vehicle to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car's doors. It's a must to safeguard your vehicle and to prevent other people from being able to use your key fob to access 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 working. It is essential to have your key fob reset correctly by a professional who is equipped with the right equipment.
It's also possible that the problem is with the buttons and this could be a simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons that are jostled around all the time, and may break or loosen. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you might need to adjust them manually.
It is recommended to open the key fob and look at it, but be careful. Certain key fobs don't have an easy release mechanism. You may need an instrument or screwdriver to remove them. Some fobs are sealed, and are not openable without special tools. You'll need to go to a dealer to have them professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob from the same model and make, try using it to access the programming mode of your car. It may require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off the lights and electronics, and press a set of buttons in a specific order that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't function or require to be pressed very hard to perform, it could be the result of mechanical damage. The key fob's function could be affected by a fall on concrete or accidentally hitting the button by using a sharp object. You'll need take apart the key fob and carefully examine it to see whether there are any buttons that appear to be broken. If that is the case, a locksmith can fix it.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. It is important to clean your keys frequently using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. You may also need to clean the surface of the keys. You should also try to determine if the issue is with your car's locks or with the key fob itself. If you don't own a spare key, you can try the keys in a different vehicle to see if the problem is solved.
The decision of whether or not the key fob requires to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of the battery. If your key fob is not able to function after replacing 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 should have it reprogrammed to the car. This will be dependent on the vehicle model however, generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car by inserting the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position, and then press the button on the remote. If this is successful, the exterior and/or interior lights should flash. You can test the key fob in order to confirm that it was successfully programmed. In rare cases the key fob could stop working due to problems with the door lock.