Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, but they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that will usually get them working again.
The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and easy to locate.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If the board is damaged, the key fob will not function properly. In contrast to battery failure, which is typically fairly simple for most drivers to repair at home, damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will require a professional locksmith or dealer for your car.
The majority of remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin batteries that have a long time-to-life, but won't last for long. If you've been using batteries for a long time, changing them will probably solve your issue. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time and you're surprised to discover that the buttons don't respond in any way, even if the batteries are in good condition. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot of jostling and may break or become unresponsive with time. If this is the case, removing the buttons and cleaning them prior to reseating them will often resolve your problem.
If your remote's buttons not working, you might have to re-program it to match the system in your car. This is typically accomplished by turning the key in the ignition repeatedly while keeping the doors closed. This will depend on the model and make of your car, but you can find instructions on the internet or consult a professional.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can take off the cover by tearing it apart. Be careful not to damage buttons or other internal components. The best tool to use to accomplish this is pliers with needle-nose tips with longer tips, which can better grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow, or putty can assist them to grip delicate components. This is something locksmiths in the automotive industry can perform, since the wrong methods could damage the electronic components. The plastic may break if you try to take the fob apart with force. It is also possible that the buttons connected to it could be ripped off accidentally if try to forcefully break it.
A defective transponder chip
Transponder chips can malfunction if you've previously been able to start the car using the remote key, but you haven't been able to do it again. This is because the key relies on the small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system that your key is valid and you should be in a position to start the engine. If the chip isn't able to transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This problem is more common in older cars, but it can also be found in more modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears out over time. It is possible to hire a car locksmith replace this portion of your key, but it can be costly.
In certain cases the chip in your key could be dead. If this is the case, it will need to be replaced by an auto dealer. This is the most costly but necessary option to get your car back on the road.
The other possibility is that the chip inside your key has been damaged, which means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This could happen if the battery is changed or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this issue, however you may have to visit the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key you should first try a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can disassemble the key fob to perform a visual examination. Make sure that no button appears to be loose or broken. These parts are often used and may become loose as time passes. It is best to have them put in place by a professional if they are loose. This can often bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is especially applicable to keys that were accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob still not working even after you've tried a new one it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water, or dropped or dropped on. Internal connections, like those that connect to battery terminals on the remote, may be damaged or broken. It's possible that you need to reprogram the key fob, and this is something you can tackle yourself if you have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the vehicle, and ensure that only you can unlock the car's doors. This is an essential step to safeguard your vehicle and prevent others from using your key fob to gain access to your vehicle or cause electrical system issues. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear can corrupt the programming of your key fob. It is crucial to have your key fob reprogrammed correctly by a professional who is equipped with the right equipment.
It's possible that the problem lies with the buttons that are a much simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs usually come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or loosen up over time. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you may be able to manually adjust them.
Open the fob key to look at it, but be careful. Certain key fobs don't have a simple release mechanism. You may need an instrument or screwdriver to remove them. Others are sealed and can't be opened without special tools, so you'll likely have to go to a dealership to have it opened professionally. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and brand use of it to enter the mode of programming for your car. Based on the model of your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, turning the lights and electronics on and off, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a particular order.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't work or require being press very hard to function, it could be the result of mechanical damage. remote car key repair near me of the key fob could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting the button with a sharp item. If this happens, you'll need to take the key fob apart and inspect it thoroughly to determine whether any of the buttons appear be broken or out of place. A locksmith can repair it for you if that's the case.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob using an swab of cotton that has been submerged in alcohol. It is also possible to clean the surfaces of the keys. It is also important to 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 using the keys in a different vehicle to see if they work similarly.
The condition of the battery will also determine if you should change the programming of the key fob. If the key fob you have is not able to function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery could be damaged. You can also deprogram your electronic key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you are not in range or disconnecting the battery in your car.
If the key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to your car. This will depend on the specific type of vehicle and the type of key fob you have, but generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the car's doors and then insert the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position and then press a button on the remote. If this is successful the exterior and/or interior lights should flash. You can then retest your key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed with your vehicle. In rare instances the key fob may be inoperable if there's an issue with the door lock itself.