Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are very useful and convenient, however they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. There are fortunately, quick fixes that can usually get them back up and running.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board that is in your remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your car. If the board is damaged the key fob won't work correctly. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require a professional auto-locksmith or your car dealer.
The majority of remote key fobs are powered by a lithium-ion coin battery, which has an extremely long shelf life. However they will not last for a long time. The change of the batteries is likely to solve your problem, especially if you've had them for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a long period of time and you're surprised to find that the buttons aren't working at all, even when the batteries are fresh. The buttons on your keyfob are exposed to a lot of jostling and may break or become unresponsive over time. If this happens taking them off and cleaning them prior to reseating them will often resolve your problem.
If the buttons on your remote aren't responding, you may have to change the programming to work with the car's system. This is usually done by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are shut. The process will vary depending on the make and model, but you should be able to find instructions online or contact an expert for assistance.
If the key fob has a plastic exterior it is possible to take off the cover and pull it apart. Be careful not to scratch any buttons or internal components. The best tool for this is pliers with needle-nose tips with longer tips that can more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow or putty can assist them to grasp delicate components. This is something that an automotive locksmith could use, since improper methods could cause damage to the electronic components. The attempt to forcefully pull the fob apart could break the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally break the buttons that are connected to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips could malfunction if you have previously been able to start the vehicle using the remote key but are unable to do so again. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to notify it that your key is valid, and you'll be able to begin the vehicle. If the chip fails to properly transmit this message, the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.
This issue is most frequent in older vehicles, but can also happen in newer ones too. The transponder chip wears down over time. This part can be replaced by a car locksmith however it is costly.
In some cases your chip could 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 the chip inside your key has been damaged and it is unable to longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This could occur when the battery is replaced, or when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this issue, however you may need to visit the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're having problems with your remote key the first thing to consider is backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, take apart your key fob and perform a visual examination. Make sure that no buttons appear to be broken or broken. These components are frequently used and can become loose as time passes. It's best to have them soldered in place by a professional if they are loose. In most instances, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally put into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob still not working after you've tried a new one, it could be due to other problems. Fobs can be damaged by water, dropping them or stepping on them, and the internal connections, like the ones that connect the battery terminals in the remote, could be damaged or disconnected. It is possible to reprogram the key fob, and this is 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 are able to unlock the car doors. This is a vital step to safeguard your vehicle and stop others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system issues. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the program and stop your key fob from functioning. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob in a proper manner.
It's possible that the issue is in the buttons and is an simpler solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs usually come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or lose their elasticity over time. If you see that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you may be able to manually adjust them.
Open the fob that you are using to examine it, but be careful. Certain key fobs don't have a simple release mechanism. You might require an instrument or screwdriver to break them. Some fobs are sealed, and cannot be opened without specialized tools. You'll need to bring them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and make, try using it to access the programming mode of your car. Depending on the car you drive, this may involve closing and locking the doors, switching lights and other electronics off and on, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a certain sequence.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't work or require being pressed very hard to work, it could be the result of mechanical damage. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object can impact the way it functions. If this is the case you'll have to disassemble the key fob and inspect it thoroughly to see whether any of the buttons appear be broken or are out of place. A locksmith can repair it for you if that's the case.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. It is recommended to clean your keys fob with the help of a cotton swab which has been soaked in alcohol. You may have to scrub the surface of the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue lies with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, think about using the keys on a different vehicle to see if they function similarly.
car keys repairs near me of the battery will determine if you should reprogram the key fob. If your key fob is not able to function after replacing the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. You can also deprogram your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too many times when you are not in range or disconnecting your car's battery.
If the key fob is still not functioning after replacing the battery, get it reprogrammed with your car. It will depend on your particular car model, but you'll typically need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Simply insert the key into the ignition, set it to accessory, then hit the remote that is wireless. Usually, the exterior and interior lights will flash if this is successful. It is then possible to test your key fob to ensure that it is successfully programmed to the vehicle. In rarer cases the key fob might be inoperable due to a problem with the door lock.