Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful, but can be frustrating when they stop functioning. Fortunately, there are simple fixes that are able to get them working again.
Replace the battery first. The majority of fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. They are inexpensive and readily available.
Broken Electronics
The remote car key you have an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. The key fob won't function in the event that this board is damaged. Unlike battery failure, which is generally quite easy for most drivers to repair at home damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will require a professional locksmith or your dealer in the car.
The majority of remote key fobs are powered by lithium ion coin batteries, which have an extended shelf life. However they will not last for long. If you've been using batteries for a long period of time replacing them is likely to solve the issue. If you've been using your remote fob for a while and you're surprised to discover that the buttons aren't responding even though the batteries are fresh. Since the buttons on your key fob undergo lots of rubbing, they can sometimes break or become unresponsive over time. In this case, removing and cleaning the buttons will usually solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote don't respond, you may require reprogramming it to work with the car's system. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are closed. The process will vary depending on your car's make and model, but you will be able to locate instructions online or contact a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of plastic you can remove the cover by tearing it apart. Be careful not to damage any buttons or internal components. This can be done with needle-nosed pliers which have longer tips. They can easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow can aid in grabbing delicate components. This is something an automotive locksmith could perform, since the wrong methods could cause damage to the electronics. The attempt to forcefully pull the fob apart could cause damage to the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally snap off any buttons that are connected to it.
Chips in the transponder are defective.
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously successfully started the car using the remote key but cannot do it again. This is because the key relies on the small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits a signal to the system that your key is valid and that you should be capable of starting the engine. If the chip doesn't correctly transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This problem is more common in older vehicles, but it can also occur in newer vehicles. This is due to the transponder chip can wear out over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this portion of your key, however this can be expensive.
In some instances, your chip may be dead. In this situation, the dealer will have to replace it. This is the most costly but necessary way to get your car back on the road.
The other possibility is that the chip inside your key has become corrupted, which means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This can occur when the battery is replaced or if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can fix this issue, however you may have to visit the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you're having issues with your remote key, the first thing to do is to create an alternative. If this doesn't fix the problem, you should take apart your key fob and conduct an examination. Check that none of the buttons are loose or broken. These parts get a lot of use and are easily moved around over time. If they're loose it is a good idea to have them re-soldered by an experienced professional. In many instances, this will restore your key fob to full functionality. This is particularly applicable to keys that are accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a fresh battery but the key fob doesn't work, there could be other issues. Fobs may be damaged by water or dropped or dropped on. Internal connections, including those that connect to the battery terminals on the remote, could also be broken or disconnected. It's possible to change the programming of the key fob, and this is something you can do by yourself if have a spare fob from the same model and brand.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you can unlock the doors of your car. It's a necessary step to protect your car and to prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access your car or cause problems with its electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear can corrupt the programming of your key fob. It is essential to have your key fob reset properly by a professional who has the proper equipment.
It's possible that the issue is with the buttons which could be a simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically 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 could try adjusting them manually.
Open the fob key to look at it, but be cautious. key repair service do not have a simple release mechanism. You may need an instrument or screwdriver to remove them. Some fobs are sealed, and are not openable without special tools. You'll have to go to a professional to have them professionally opened. You can utilize a spare keyfob of the same model and make to enter the programming mode of your vehicle. Depending on your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, turning the lights and other electronics off and on by pressing a particular set of buttons in a certain sequence.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not function or require to be pressing very hard in order to perform 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. It is necessary to remove the key fob and carefully examine it to see if there are any buttons that look damaged. If that is the case, a locksmith could repair it for you.
Failing buttons can be caused by dirt or crud trapped between the buttons. Clean your key fob with a cotton swab that has been immersed in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the issue lies with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have an extra key fob to test, you might consider trying the keys on another vehicle to determine if they work similarly.
The condition of the battery will determine whether or not you should change the programming of the key fob. If your keyfob does not function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too often while out of range or disconnecting your car battery could also erase the programming of an electronic key fob.
If the key fob still not functioning after replacing the battery, get it reprogrammed with the car. It will depend on the specific type of vehicle, but generally, you'll have to manually lock and unlock the car's doors, insert the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position, and then press a button on the remote. Usually, the exterior and interior lights will light up if this method has worked. You can retest the key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed. In more rare cases keys can not function if there is an issue with the door lock itself.