Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient however, they can be a pain if they stop working. There are a few quick fixes to make them work again.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs use lithium coin cells, which are affordable and readily available.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. The key fob will cease to function in the event that this board is damaged. 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 which have a decent lifespan, but they won't last for long. Changing the batteries will likely solve the issue, particularly if you've had them for a while. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time, you might be surprised to find that the buttons don't respond even though the batteries are fresh. Since the buttons on your key fob undergo lots of rubbing and can fail or cease to function over time. If this is the case taking them off and cleaning them before placing them back in place will usually resolve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote aren't working, you might need to reprogram it to match the system of your vehicle. This is typically accomplished by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. This will depend on the make and model of your car, but you can locate the steps on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can take off the cover by tearing it off. Be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is pliers with needle-nose tips with longer tips, which can more easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue will help them grasp delicate parts. It's also a good idea to have an auto locksmith perform this, since improper techniques can damage the electronic components within. Trying to forcefully pry the fob apart can damage the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally cut off any buttons attached to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
If you've been able start your car with the remote key, but it's not working again, it could indicate a problem with the transponder chip. This is because the key relies upon the small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to notify it that your key is in good condition, and you'll be able start your vehicle. If the chip does not correctly transmit this message the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older cars however, it can happen in newer ones also. The transponder chip wears down over time. This part can be replaced by a car locksmith however it is costly.
In some cases the chip in your key might be dead. If this is the scenario, the chip will require replacement by a dealer. This will be the most expensive option, but is often required to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip has become corrupted. This means that it will not communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen if the battery is replaced or if your key is physically damaged. A Mesa locksmith for cars can fix this, but it is possible to go to the dealership if you need to get your key programmed once more.
If you're having issues with your remote key the first thing you need to consider is backup. If this doesn't resolve the problem, you should disassemble your key fob and perform a visual inspection. Make sure all buttons appear to be broken or loose. These parts are often used and can loosen over time. If they are loose it is best to get them soldered back in place by a professional. In a lot of instances, this will return your key fob to full functionality. This is especially the case for keys that have been accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob not working after you've tried a different one it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs are damaged by water, dropping them, or stepping on them, and internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals inside the remote, may also be damaged or disconnected. It's possible that you need to reset 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 make.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car doors. It's a necessary step to protect your car and to prevent other people from being able to use your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause problems with the electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or wear and tear from normal wear and tear could corrupt the program and stop your key fob from working. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogram your key fob properly.
It's also possible that the problem is with the buttons and this could be a more straightforward fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs usually feature rubberized buttons that can be damaged or loosen over time. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged, you could try adjusting them manually.
car keys repairs is best to open the fob that you're using to look at it, but be cautious. Certain key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You might require an instrument or screwdriver to break them. Certain fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without specialized tools. You'll need to take them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. If you have a spare key fob of the same model and brand use of it to enter the mode of programming for your car. Depending on the car you drive it could involve closing and locking the doors, turning the lights and electronic devices on and off, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a specific sequence.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not function or require to be press very hard to function, it could be because of mechanical damage. The functionality of the key fob could be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting the button with a sharp object. You'll need take apart the key fob, then look over it to determine whether there are any buttons that appear to be broken. If this is the situation, a locksmith will fix it for you.
Failing buttons can also be the result of dirt or crud trapped between the buttons. It is crucial to clean your keys regularly using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. You may also need to clean the surface of the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue is with your car's locks or with the key fob itself. If you don't own an extra key, try the keys in another vehicle to see if the problem is solved.
Whether or not 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 could be damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too many times when you are out of range, or disconnecting your car battery could also cause the deprogramming of the electronic key fob.
If the key fob still not functioning after replacing the battery, you should get it reprogrammed with the car. It will depend on the specific vehicle model, but you'll typically need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Simply insert the key into the ignition, set it to accessory, and press a button on the remote that is wireless. If this is successful, the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. It is possible to test the key fob in order to confirm that it was successfully programmed. In rare cases, the key fob may be inoperable due to an issue with the door lock.