Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient however, they can be a pain when they stop working. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that can usually get them back up and running.
First, you should replace the battery. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. They are affordable and readily available.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board in the remote car key transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If the board is damaged the key fob will not function properly. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require an auto-locksmith professional or your car dealer.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries, which have a reasonably long shelf life but will not last for a long time. If you've used the batteries for a while replacing them is likely to solve your problem. You may be surprised if you have been using your remote for a long time and the buttons do not respond in any way. This is true even if the batteries are new. Since the buttons on your key fob are subject to frequent jolts and can break or become inactive over time. In this situation, taking off and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to solve the issue.
If your remote's buttons not working, you might have to re-program it to match the system of your vehicle. This is typically accomplished by turning the key in the ignition several times while the doors are shut. The method will vary based on the make and model, but you should be able to find instructions online or consult an expert for assistance.
If the key fob has an exterior made of plastic it is possible to remove the cover and then pry it apart. But be careful not to damage buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will better grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow or putty can help them grasp delicate components. It's recommended to employ an automotive locksmith take care of this, since improper techniques could cause damage to the electronic components inside. Trying to forcefully pry the fob off could cause damage to the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally cut off the buttons that are attached to it.
Faulty transponder chip
Transponder chips can fail if you've previously had the ability to start your vehicle using the remote key but haven't been able to do it again. This is because your key relies upon this tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system to notify it that your key is valid and you'll be able start the vehicle. If the chip fails to transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This problem is more common in older vehicles, but it can also occur in modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears out over time. It is possible to hire a car locksmith replace this part of your key, however this could be costly.
In some instances the chip may be dead. If this is the situation, it's going to need to be replaced by a dealer. This is the most expensive but necessary option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the key's chip has been damaged. This means that it can not communicate with the immobilizer. This can occur when the battery is replaced, or it can occur when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa locksmith for cars can solve this issue, but it might be necessary to visit the dealer if you need to get your key programmed again.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key you should first try a backup. If this does not solve the issue, you can take apart your key fob and conduct a visual inspection. Verify that nothing on the buttons appear to be broken or damaged. These components are frequently used and can loosen as time passes. If they're loose, it's a good idea to have them reattached by a professional. This can often make your key fob. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally placed into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a brand new battery but the key fob doesn't function, there could be other issues. Fobs may be damaged by dropping them, or stepping on them, and internal connections, such as the ones that connect the battery terminals inside the remote, could be damaged or broken. You may need to reprogram your key fob if you don't have a replacement similar kind and model.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you are able to unlock the doors of your car. It's a crucial 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 its electrical system. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear, could cause a problem with the programming of your key fob. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob properly.
It's possible that the problem is in the buttons that are a much simpler fix than replacing the whole key fob. Key fobs often come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or loosen up over time. If you are able to see that the buttons aren't damaged you could try adjusting them manually.
Open the fob key to look at it, but take care. Certain fobs do not have an easy release mechanism, and you might need a small screwdriver or other device to open them. Some are sealed and can't be opened with specialized tools, so you'll likely have to bring it to a dealer to have it professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and manufacturer you want to use it, try using it to enter the mode of programming for your car. This may require you to close and lock the doors, turn on and off lights as well as electronics, and then press a series of buttons in an order that is specific to your vehicle.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not work or need to be pressing very hard in order to work it could be the result of mechanical damage. Dropping the key fob onto concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object could affect how well it functions. If this is the case you'll need to disassemble the key fob and carefully determine whether any buttons appear to be damaged or out of place. If this is the situation, a locksmith will fix it.
Dirt or crud can also cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob using the help of a cotton swab which has been submerged in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface on the keys. It is also important to determine if the problem is related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't have an additional key fob to test, you might consider using the keys on a different vehicle to determine if they work similarly.
If the key fob needs to be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of its battery. If your keyfob does not work after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery could be damaged. You can also deprogram your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too frequently when you are not in range or disconnecting the battery in your car.
If the key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. It will depend on your particular vehicle model, but you'll generally require locking and unlocking the doors manually. Insert auto key repair near me into the ignition, change it to accessory, and hit the remote that is wireless. If this is working the exterior and/or interior lights should flash. You can retest the key fob in order to confirm that it was successfully programmed. In less rare cases, a key fob can stop working if there is an issue with the door lock itself.