Car Remote Key RepairModern remotes for cars are useful and convenient, however they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. There are fortunately, quick fixes that can usually get them working again.
First, you should replace the battery. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are cheap and readily available.
Broken Electronics
The remote car key you have an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't perform as it should. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require a professional auto-locksmith or your car dealer.
Most remote key fobs are powered by lithium ion coin batteries, which have an extremely long shelf life. However they won't last forever. Changing the batteries will likely solve your problem, especially when they've been in use for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a while and you're surprised to find that the buttons aren't working at all, even when the batteries are fresh. Because the buttons on your key fob get frequent jolts, they can sometimes break or become inactive over time. In this instance, removing and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to fix the problem.
If your remote's buttons aren't working, you might need to reprogram it to work with the system in your vehicle. This is typically done by turning the key in the ignition several times while the doors are closed. This will depend on the model and make of your vehicle, but you can find the instructions online or seek professional help.
If the key fob is made of plastic you can take off the cover by tearing it open. However, be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. This is best done with needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They can easily grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers using super glue,
key repairs near me melted tallow, or putty can help them grasp delicate components. This is something that locksmiths in the automotive industry can do, as incorrect techniques could damage the electronics. If you try to forcefully break the fob off could damage the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally snap off the buttons that are connected to it.
A defective transponder chip
If you've been able start your car with the remote key, but it's not working again, it could indicate that there is a problem with your transponder chip. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It signals the system that your key is legitimate and you should be in a position to start the engine. If the chip does not properly transmit this message, the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This issue is more prevalent in older cars, however it can also occur in newer vehicles. The transponder chip wears away over time. This part can be repaired by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some cases the chip may be dead. In this instance the dealer will have to replace it. This will be the most expensive option but is often required to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip is damaged. This means that it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen if the battery is changed or if the key is physically damaged. A Mesa
auto key fob repair locksmith can fix this problem, but you may need to go to the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key, you should first try a backup. If this doesn't fix the problem, you should disassemble your key fob and do a visual inspection. Check that none of the button appears to be loose or broken. These parts get lots of use and may be lost over time. If they're loose it is best to get them soldered back in place by a professional. This can often make your key fob. This is especially the case for keys that have been accidentally put in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is still not working after you've tried a new one, it could be due to other problems. Fobs may be damaged by water or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, including those that connect to the battery terminals in the remote, could be damaged or broken. It's possible to reset the key fob and this is something you can do by yourself if have a spare fob of the same model and brand.
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 crucial step to secure your vehicle and stop other people from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause electrical system problems. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear can corrupt the programming of your key fob. It is crucial to have your key fob reset correctly by a professional with the proper equipment.
It's also possible that the problem is with the buttons themselves which could be a more straightforward solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs often come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or lose their elasticity over time. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged, you can try adjusting them manually.
It is recommended to open the fob that you're using to look at it, but be cautious. Some key fobs do not have an easy release mechanism. You might require an instrument or screwdriver to break them. Certain fobs are sealed and are not openable without special tools. You'll need to bring them to a dealer to have them professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same model and make to enter the programming mode of your car. This may require you to shut and lock the doors, switch on and off the lights and electronics, and use a set of buttons in a sequence that is specific to your vehicle.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be the cause when the buttons on your key fob don't function or require pressing them extremely forcefully. The key fob's function could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object. It is necessary to remove the key fob and examine it to see if there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. A locksmith can fix it for you if this is the case.
Failing buttons can be caused by dirt or debris that has accumulated between the buttons. It is crucial to clean your keys regularly using the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. It may also be necessary to clean the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the problem is with your
car keys repair locks or the key fob. If you don't have an extra key fob to test, think about using the keys in a different vehicle to see if they work similarly.
The condition of the battery will also determine whether or not you should reprogram the key fob. If your key fob fails to function after replacing the batteries, it probably means that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. You can also deprogram your electronic key fob by pressing the buttons too frequently when you are not in range, or by disconnecting your car's battery.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for the car. It will depend on your specific car model, but you'll generally need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Insert the key into the ignition, change it to accessory, then hit the wireless remote. If this is working then the interior and exterior lights should flash. You can test the key fob in order to verify that it was successfully programmed. In rare cases the key fob could not function due to problems with the door locks.
