Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient however, they can be a pain when they stop functioning. Thankfully, there are some simple fixes that are able to bring them back in operation.
The first step is to replace the battery. Most fobs use lithium coin cells, which are affordable and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will stop working in the event that this board is damaged. In contrast to battery failure, which is typically quite easy for most drivers to fix at home Damage to the transmitter or receiver of the remote key will require a professional auto locksmith or your dealer in the car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long time-to-life, but won't last for long. If you've been using batteries for a long period of time replacing them is likely to solve your issue. 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 responding even though the batteries are in good condition. Since the buttons on your key fob are subject to a lot of jostling and can break or become unresponsive over time. If this is the case taking them off, cleaning them, and reseating them will often resolve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote aren't responding, you may have to change the programming to match the system of your car. This is typically done by turning the ignition key several times with the doors closed. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but you can locate the steps online or seek professional help.
If the key fob is made of a plastic exterior it is possible to take off the cover and pull it apart. Be careful not to damage the buttons or internal components. The best tool for this is needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which can better grasp small components. Lubricating pliers using putty, melted tallow or super glue can aid in grabbing delicate components. It's recommended to hire an automotive locksmith take care of this, as improper techniques could damage the electronic components within. Trying to forcefully pry the fob apart can break the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally break any buttons connected to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
If you've managed to start your car with the remote key, but not ever again, it could be a sign of that there is a problem with your transponder chip. This is because your key relies on this small electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It transmits a signal to the system that your key is legitimate and you should be in a position to start the engine. If the chip fails to transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable your vehicle.
This issue is more prevalent in older cars, however it can also be found in more modern vehicles. auto key repair wears down over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this part of your key, however this could be costly.
In certain situations, your 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 chip inside the key has become damaged that means it no longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This could happen when the battery is replaced or if your key is physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can fix 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, you can disassemble the key fob to examine it visually. It is important to ensure that none of the buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These components are frequently used and can become loose as time passes. If they are loose it's best to get them re-soldered by an expert. In a lot of instances, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is especially the case 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 different one it could be due to other problems. Fobs could be damaged by water or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, such as ones that connect to battery terminals on the remote, could also be damaged or disconnected. It's possible that you need to reprogram the key fob, and this may be something you can do yourself if you have a spare fob of the same model and make.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to match your car and ensure that only you have the ability to unlock the car doors. This is an essential step to safeguard your vehicle and stop others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system problems. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear, could cause a problem with the programming of your key fob. car key repair company with the right equipment can reprogramme your key fob in a proper manner.
It's also possible that the problem could be with the buttons themselves, which can be a simpler solution than replacing the entire key fob. Most key fobs feature rubberized buttons that are tossed around all the time, and can break or become loose. If you are able to see that the buttons aren't damaged you might try manually adjusting them.
It is best to open the key fob and take a look at it, but be aware. Certain key fobs don't have a simple release mechanism. You might require a small tool or screwdriver to remove them. Certain fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without specialized tools. You'll need to take them to a dealer to have them professionally opened. If you have a spare key fob of the same model and manufacturer use of it to enter the mode of programming for your car. This could require you to shut and lock the doors, switch on and off the lights as well as electronics, and then press a set of buttons in an order specific to your car.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame if your key fob's buttons don't function or require pressing them extremely hard. Dropping the key fob onto concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object could affect how well it works. If this is the case you'll have to take the key fob apart and inspect it thoroughly to determine whether any buttons appear to be broken or out of their place. If that is the case, a locksmith can repair it for you.
The accumulation of crud or dirt can cause buttons to fail. It is important to clean your keys regularly with the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface of the keys. You should also try to determine if the problem is with your car's locks or with the key fob itself. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, think about trying the keys on another vehicle to see if they work also.
The condition of the battery will also determine whether or not you should reprogram the key fob. 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 frequently when you're out of range or disconnecting the battery in your car.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to your car. This will be dependent on the type of vehicle and the type of key fob you have, but generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car and then insert the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position and push the button on the remote. If this works, the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. It is then possible to test your key fob to verify that it is successfully programmed to the vehicle. In rare instances the key fob might stop working due to an issue with the door locks.
