Car Remote Key Repair
Modern remotes for cars are useful and convenient, but they can be a hassle when they stop working. There are some quick solutions to make them work again.
The first step is to replace the battery. remote car key repairs of fobs utilize lithium coin cells, which are affordable and easy to find.
Broken Electronics
Your car key remote has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will cease to function when the board is damaged. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith professional or your dealer in your car.
The majority of remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin batteries that have a long lifespan, but they won't last for long. Change the batteries could solve your issue, especially if you've had them for a long time. You may be surprised when you've used your remote for a long time and the buttons don't respond in any way. This is the case even if the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob will be subjected to a lot of bouncing and can break or become inactive with time. In this situation, taking off and cleaning the buttons can solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote aren't working, you might have to program it again to match the system of your vehicle. This is usually done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are closed. The procedure will differ based on the car's model and make however, you will be able to locate instructions online or consult a professional for assistance.
If the key fob has an exterior made of plastic, it's possible to remove the cover and then pry it off. Be careful not to scratch any buttons or internal components. This is best done using needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They can easily grasp small parts. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow, or putty will help them grip delicate components. It's recommended to employ an automotive locksmith take care of this, as improper methods could damage the electronic components within. The plastic may break if you try to remove the fob with force. It's also possible any buttons that are attached to it may break off accidentally if you forcefully pull it apart.
A defective transponder chip
Transponder chips could malfunction if you've previously had the ability to start your vehicle using the remote key but are unable to do so again. This is because the key relies upon the small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It signals the system that your key is valid and that you should be in a position to start the engine. If the chip is unable to correctly transmit this message the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older cars, however it is also a problem in more modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears down over time. It is possible to hire a car locksmith replace this portion of your key, however this can be expensive.
In certain situations, your chip may be dead. If this is the scenario, the chip will need to be replaced by a dealer. This will be the most expensive option but it is usually necessary in order to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the key's chip has become corrupted. This means that it can not communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen if the battery is changed or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this issue, however you may need to go to the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you are having problems with your remote key, you should first attempt to backup your device. If this doesn't solve the issue, disassemble your key fob and conduct an examination. You should make sure that none of the buttons appear to be broken or loose. These components see frequent use and are easily moved around over time. It is recommended to have them soldered in place by an expert when they're loose. In most instances, this will return your key fob to full functionality. This is especially applicable to keys that were accidentally placed into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a new battery, but the key fob is still unable to work, there could be other issues. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping over them, and internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals in the remote, may also be broken or disconnected. It's possible that you need to reprogram the key fob, and it could be something you can tackle yourself if you have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you can unlock the doors of your car. This is an essential step to protect your vehicle and stop other people from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause electrical system malfunctions. Certain engine error codes or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the programming and stop your key fob from working. It is crucial to have your key fob reprogrammed professionally by a professional who has the proper equipment.
It's possible that the issue lies with the buttons, which is a much easier solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons that are tossed around constantly and could break or get loose. 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 key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You may need a screwdriver or small tool to break them. Some are sealed and cannot be opened without 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 from the same model and brand, try using it to access the mode of programming for your car. This may require you to shut and lock the doors, turn on and off the lights and electronic devices, and then press a set 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 pressed very hard to perform it could be because of mechanical damage. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object can alter the way it works. If this happens you'll need to disassemble the key fob and carefully see whether any buttons appear to be broken or out of place. If this is the case, a locksmith could repair it for you.
The failure of buttons can be caused by dirt or crud trapped between the buttons. It is essential to clean your key fob frequently using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. It may also be necessary to clean the surfaces of the keys. You should also determine if the issue is related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't have an extra key fob to test, think about trying the keys on another vehicle to determine if they work similarly.
If the key fob requires to be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of its battery. If the key fob you have is not able to work after replacing the batteries, the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. You can also reset your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too many times when you are not in range, or by disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob still not functioning after replacing the battery, you should have it reprogrammed by your car. It will depend on your particular car model, but you'll generally require locking and unlocking the doors manually. Simply insert the key into the ignition, turn it to accessory, then hit the wireless remote. Usually the exterior and interior lights will light up if this method has worked. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is successfully programmed to the vehicle. In rare cases the key fob might not function due to an issue with the door lock.