Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful however, they can be a pain if they stop functioning. There are fortunately, quick fixes that will usually get them working again.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are affordable and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board inside the remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your vehicle. If this board is damaged the key fob won't perform as it should. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require a professional auto-locksmith or your dealer in your car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries, that have a long time-to-life, but won't last for long. If you've been using the batteries for a long time replacing them is likely to solve your issue. If you've been using your remote fob for a while you may be shocked to find that the buttons don't respond even though the batteries are in good condition. Because the buttons on your key fob are subject to a lot of jostling and can break or become unresponsive over time. In car key repair service , removing and cleaning the buttons will usually fix the problem.
If the buttons on your remote aren't responding, you may require reprogramming it to work with the car's system. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key a few times while the doors are closed. The method will vary based on your car's model and make, but you should be able to find instructions online or ask an expert for assistance.
If the key fob is made of an exterior made of plastic, it's possible to remove the cover and pull it apart. Be careful not to scratch any buttons or internal components. The best tool for this is needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue can aid in grabbing delicate components. It's recommended to hire an automotive locksmith do this, as improper methods can damage the electronic components inside. If you try to forcefully break the fob off could break the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally snap off any buttons that are attached to it.
Chips in the transponder are defective.
Transponder chips could malfunction if you've previously been able to start the car using the remote key, but haven't been able to do it again. This is because the key relies on the tiny electronic component to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits a signal to the system that your key is legitimate and you should be able to start the engine. If the chip does not correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer is disabled for your vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older cars, but can also happen in newer ones also. This is due to the transponder chip wears out over time. The chip can be replaced by a car locksmith however it is costly.
In some cases the chip inside your key may be completely dead. In this case the dealer will need to replace it. This is the most expensive option but is often necessary in order to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip in 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 locksmith in your car can repair this, however it is possible to visit a dealership for your key programmed again.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key, you must first try a backup. If this does not solve the issue, disassemble the key fob to perform a visual examination. You should make sure that there are no buttons that appear to be damaged or loose. These parts get lots of use and may be moved around over time. It is best to have them soldered in place by a professional when they're loose. This is often a way to make your key fob. This is particularly the case for keys that were accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a new battery and the key fob doesn't work, there may be other issues. Fobs are damaged by dropping them or stepping on them, and internal connections, such as those that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may also be damaged or broken. It's possible that you need to reprogram the key fob, and it could be something you can do on your own if you have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match the car and ensure that only you have the ability to unlock the car doors. This is an essential step to secure your vehicle and stop others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system problems. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the programming and prevent your key fob from functioning. It's important to have your key fob reprogrammed professionally by a professional who has the appropriate equipment.
It's possible that the issue lies with the buttons and is an easier fix than replacing the whole key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons which can be damaged or lose their elasticity over time. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you might want to adjust them manually.
It is best to open the key fob and look at it, but be cautious. Certain fobs do not have an easy release mechanism, and you may require a small screwdriver or another device to open them. Others 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 professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same model and brand 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 certain set of buttons in a certain order.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be the cause if your key fob's buttons aren't working or require you to press them very forcefully. Dropping the key fob onto concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object could affect how well it works. You'll need take apart the key fob, then look at it to determine whether there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. If that is the case, a locksmith could repair it for you.
The failure of buttons can also be due to dirt or debris that has accumulated between the buttons. It is crucial to clean your key fob frequently using the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. You may have to scrub the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the problem is related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't have an additional key fob to test, think about using the keys in a different vehicle to see if they work similarly.
If the key fob requires to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of its battery. If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the batteries, the terminal contacts of the battery may be damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob repeatedly when you are out of range, or disconnecting your car battery can also deprogram an electronic key fob.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. This will be dependent on the specific model of vehicle, but generally, you'll have to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car by inserting the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position and then push the remote button. If this works then the interior and exterior lights should flash. It is then possible to test your key fob to ensure that it is programmed to the vehicle. In rarer cases, the key fob may not function due to an issue with the door locks.