Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient but they can be frustrating when they stop working. Thankfully, there are some quick fixes that will usually bring them working again.
Replace the battery first. The majority of fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and easy to locate.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board that is in the remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your car. The key fob will stop working when the board is damaged. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require an auto-locksmith professional or your car dealer.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long shelf life but will not last for a long time. Changing the batteries will likely solve your issue, especially those who have had them for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time, you might be surprised to discover that the buttons aren't working even though the batteries are fresh. Since the buttons on your key fob are subject to lots of rubbing and rubbing, they may break or become unresponsive over time. If this is the case taking them off and cleaning them prior to replacing them can often solve 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 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 can find instructions online or contact a professional for help.
If the key fob is made of plastic you can remove the cover by tearing it apart. Be careful not to scratch any buttons or internal components. This can be done with a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They can easily grasp small components. Lubricating pliers with putty, melted tallow or super glue can help them grasp delicate parts. It's recommended to hire an auto locksmith perform this, as improper techniques could cause damage to the electronic components inside. how to repair car key fob to forcefully pull the fob apart can break the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally break any buttons that are connected to it.
Chips in the transponder are defective.
Transponder chips could malfunction if you've previously successfully started the car using the remote key, but cannot do it again. This is because your key relies on this small electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to notify it that your key is in good condition, and you'll be able to start the vehicle. If the chip doesn't correctly transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older vehicles however, it can happen in more modern models as well. This is because the transponder chip can wear out over time. This component can be repaired by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some instances, your chip may be dead. In this case, the dealer will have to replace it. This is the most expensive option however, it is often required to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip has become corrupted. This means it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This could happen when the battery is replaced or when 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 backup. If this doesn't fix the issue, disassemble your key fob and perform an examination. You should make sure that there are no buttons that appear to be damaged or loose. These components see frequent use and are easily moved around over time. It is recommended to have them soldered in place by an expert when they're loose. This can often restore the functionality of your key fob. This is especially the case for keys that have been accidentally put into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is still not working after you've tried a different 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 those that connect the battery terminals in the remote, may also be broken or disconnected. It's possible that you need to reprogram the key fob, and this may be something you can accomplish yourself if you have a spare fob from the same model and make.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and ensure that only you can unlock the car's doors. It's a necessary step to safeguard your vehicle and keep others from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle 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. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue lies with the buttons and is an more straightforward fix than replacing the whole key fob. Key fobs typically feature rubberized buttons that can be damaged or lose their elasticity over time. If you see that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you may need to adjust them manually.
It is best to open the key fob and look at it, but be cautious. Certain key fobs don't have a simple release mechanism. You may require an instrument or screwdriver to break them. Some are sealed and cannot be opened with the use of specialized tools. You'll likely have to go to a dealership to have it professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob that is the same make and model to enter the programming mode of your car. It may require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off lights and electronics, and press a set of buttons in a specific order that is unique to your car.
Failing remote car key repairs may be the reason if your key fob's buttons don't function or require pressing them extremely hard. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object could affect how well it performs. If this happens, you'll need to remove the key fob and examine it carefully to check if any of the buttons appear be damaged or are out of the right place. A locksmith can fix it for you if this is the case.
Dirt or crud can also cause buttons to fail. It is crucial to clean your key fob regularly with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. It is also possible to clean the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the problem is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, you might consider using the keys on a different vehicle to see if they function as well.
Whether or not the key fob should be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of its battery. If your key fob fails to function after replacing the batteries, it likely means that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob repeatedly while you're out of range or disconnecting your car battery could also erase the programming of an electronic key fob.
If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. It will depend on your specific vehicle model, but you'll generally require locking and unlocking the doors manually. Insert the key into the ignition, change it to accessory, and press the wireless remote. Usually the exterior and interior lights will light up if this has worked. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is successfully programmed with the vehicle. In more rare cases, a key fob can be inoperable if there's an issue with the door lock itself.