Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful but they can be frustrating when they stop functioning. There are fortunately, quick fixes that will usually get them working again.
The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered with lithium coin cells. They are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board in your car key remote transmits and interprets signals for your vehicle. If the board is damaged the key fob won't function properly. Unlike battery failure, which is typically fairly simple for most drivers to repair at home Damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will probably require a professional locksmith or your car dealer.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long lifespan, but they won't last forever. Change the batteries could solve the issue, particularly if you've had them for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a while you may be shocked to discover that the buttons don't respond even though the batteries are in good condition. The buttons on your keyfob are exposed to a lot of jostling and can break or become unresponsive with time. If this is the case, removing the buttons and cleaning them prior to reseating them will often resolve your 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 typically done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. 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 has a plastic exterior it is possible to remove the cover and pry it off. But be careful not to damage buttons or other internal components. This is best done with needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to easily grasp small components. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow can aid in grabbing delicate parts. It's also a good idea to hire an auto locksmith perform this, since improper techniques could cause damage to the electronic components inside. The plastic could be damaged when you attempt to remove the fob with force. It's also possible that any buttons connected to it could be ripped off accidentally if try to forcefully break it.
Faulty transponder chip
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously been able to start the car using the remote key, but are unable to do so again. This is because your key relies on this tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It signals the system that your key is valid and that you are able to start the engine. If the chip fails to properly transmit this message, the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older cars however, it can happen in newer ones as well. This is due to the transponder chip wears out over time. This part can be replaced by a locksmith for cars, but it is expensive.
In certain cases the chip in your key may be completely dead. If this is the scenario, the chip will need to be replaced by a dealer. This is the most expensive option, but is often required to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip in your key has been damaged that means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen when the battery is replaced or it can occur when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can solve this issue, but you may need to go to the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you're having problems with your remote key, the first thing you should consider is backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, take apart your key fob and conduct a visual inspection. Make sure there are no buttons that appear to be damaged or loose. These parts are used a lot and can become loose as time passes. If they're loose it is best to get them reattached by an experienced professional. In many instances, this will restore your key fob to full functionality. This is particularly true for keys that were accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob not working after you've tried a different one, it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping over them, and the internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may be broken or disconnected. It's possible that you need to change the programming of the key fob, and it could be something you can do on your own if you have a spare fob of the same model and make.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the doors of your car. This is a crucial step to protect your vehicle and prevent others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system problems. sneak a peek here or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the programming and prevent your key fob from functioning. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogramme your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue is with the buttons and this could be a more straightforward solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons which can be damaged or loosen over time. If you see that the buttons don't appear to be damaged, you may be able to manually adjust them.
It is recommended to open the fob that you're using to look at it, but be careful. Some fobs aren't equipped with an easy release mechanism, and you may require a small screwdriver or some other tool to pry them apart. Some are sealed and can't be opened at all without special tools, so you'll likely have to bring it to a dealer to have it opened professionally. You can use a spare keyfob that is the same model and make to access the programming mode of your vehicle. Based on the model of your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, turning lights and other electronics off and on, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a certain order.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage may be the reason if the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require you to press them very in a very forceful manner. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object may impact the way it performs. It is necessary to remove the key fob, then look over it to determine whether there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. A locksmith can repair it for you if that's the case.
The accumulation of crud or dirt can cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob using an swab of cotton that has been soaked in alcohol. You may also need to clean the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the issue lies related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't own a spare key, you can try using the keys of a different vehicle to determine if it works.
If the key fob requires to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of the battery. If the key fob you have is not able to function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery may be damaged. You can also deprogram your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you're out of range or disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob still not functioning after replacing the battery, have it reprogrammed by the car. This will be dependent on the model of vehicle however, generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car and then insert the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position and then press the button on the remote. If this is successful, the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. Then, you can test your key fob to verify that it is programmed to the vehicle. In rarer cases the key fob might not function due to an issue with the door locks.