Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient but they can be frustrating when they stop working. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that will usually get them working again.
First, you should replace the battery. Most fobs use lithium coin cells, which are cheap and easy to find.
Broken Electronics
Your car key remote has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will cease to function in the event that this board is damaged. Contrary to battery failure, which is generally quite easy for most drivers to fix at home damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will require a professional locksmith or your car dealer.
The majority of remote key fobs are powered by lithium ion coin batteries, which have a long shelf life. However they won't last for a long time. The change of the batteries is likely to solve your issue, especially if you've had them for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time you may be shocked to find that the buttons don't respond in any way, even if the batteries are in good condition. The buttons on your keyfob are exposed to a lot jostling and may break or become inactive with time. If this happens taking them off and cleaning them before reseating them will often resolve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote aren't responding, you may require reprogramming it to work with the car's system. This is typically done by turning the ignition key repeatedly while keeping the doors shut. This will depend on the model and make of your car, but you can find instructions online or seek professional help.
If the key fob is made of an exterior made of plastic it is possible to take off the cover and then pry it apart. However, be careful not to damage the buttons or other 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 pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue can help them grasp delicate parts. 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 inside. The plastic may break if you try to take the fob apart with force. It is also possible that any buttons that are attached to it may snap off accidentally if you try to forcefully break it.
Chips in the transponder are defective.
Transponder chips could malfunction if you have previously successfully started the vehicle using the remote key, but you cannot do it again. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to let it know that your key is in good condition, and you'll be able to begin the vehicle. If the chip doesn't correctly transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This issue is most frequent in older cars however, it can happen in more modern models too. The transponder chip wears down over time. It is possible to hire a car locksmith replace this part of your key, but this can be expensive.
In certain cases the chip in your key might be dead. If this is the situation, it's going to require replacement by an authorized dealer. This is the most costly but necessary way to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip is damaged. This means that it will no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This could happen when the battery is replaced or in the event of physical damage to the key. A Mesa locksmith in your car can fix this, but it might be necessary to visit the dealer for your key programmed again.
If you're having issues with your remote key, the first thing to try is a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, take apart your key fob and conduct a visual inspection. Make sure all buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These parts are often used and can loosen over time. It is recommended to have them soldered in place by an expert if they are loose. In a lot of instances, this will restore your key fob to full functionality. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob not working after you have tried a new one it could be due to other problems. Fobs can be damaged by water, or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, including those that connect to battery terminals on the remote, can also be broken or disconnected. It's possible to reset the key fob and it could be something you can tackle by yourself if have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you can unlock the doors of your car. This is a vital step to safeguard your vehicle and prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause electrical system malfunctions. 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 reprogram your key fob in a proper manner.
It's possible that the problem is with the buttons, which is a much simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Most key fobs feature rubberized buttons that are tossed around all the time, and could break or get loose. If you see that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you may be able to manually adjust them.
Open the fob key to look at it, but take care. Certain fobs do not have an easy release mechanism, which means you may require a small screwdriver or another device to open them. Some are sealed and cannot 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 utilize a spare keyfob of the same model and brand to enter the programming mode of your vehicle. Based on car remote key repair of your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, turning lights and electronic devices on and off and pressing a certain set of buttons in a certain order.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame if your key fob's buttons don't function or require you to press them very in a very forceful manner. The key fob's function could be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp item. You'll need take apart the key fob and look at it to determine if there are any buttons that look damaged. A locksmith can fix it for you if this is the case.
The failure of buttons can also be due to dirt or crud that is trapped between the buttons. You should clean your key fob with the help of a cotton swab which has been immersed in alcohol. It is possible to clean the surface on the keys. You should also determine if the issue is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have an extra key fob to test, think about using the keys on a different vehicle to see if they function as well.
The decision of whether or not the key fob needs to be reprogrammed depends on the condition of its battery. If your key fob is not able 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 often when you are not in range, or by disconnecting your car's battery.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, you must have it reprogrammed for your car. It will depend on your specific vehicle model, but you'll typically have to lock and unlock the doors manually. Insert the key into the ignition, change it to accessory, then press the remote that is wireless. If this is working, the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. It is possible to 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 locks.