Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful however, they can be a pain if they stop working. There are fortunately, quick fixes that will usually bring them back up and running.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are equipped with lithium coin cells, which are cheap and easy to find.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board that is in your remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your car. If this board is damaged the key fob won't function properly. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require a professional auto-locksmith or your dealer in your car.
The majority of remote key fobs are powered by a lithium ion coin batteries, which have a long shelf life. However, they will not last for long. Change the batteries could solve the issue, particularly when they've been in use for a while. You might be shocked if you've been using your remote for a while and the buttons don't respond at all. This is true even in the case of batteries that are new. Because the buttons on your key fob undergo a lot of jostling and can fail or cease to function over time. In this instance, removing and cleaning the buttons will usually solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't responding, you may need to reprogramme it to work with the car's system. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key several times with the doors shut. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, however you can locate the steps on the internet or consult a professional.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can take off the cover by pulling it off. But be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. This is best done with a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to easily grasp small components. Lubricating pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue can help them grasp delicate parts. This is something that an automotive locksmith could do, as incorrect methods could cause damage to the electronics. The plastic may break if you try to remove the fob with force. It's also possible the buttons that are attached to it may break off accidentally if you forcefully pry it apart.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips can malfunction if you have previously successfully started the vehicle using the remote key, but cannot do it again. This is because the key relies upon the small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system that your key is legitimate and that you should be able to start the engine. If remote key fob repair does not properly transmit this message, the immobilizer is disabled for your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older cars, but it can also be found in modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears out over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this portion of your key, however this could be costly.
In certain situations your chip could be dead. If this is the situation, it's going to need to be replaced by an auto dealer. This is the most costly but essential option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip has become corrupted. This means it can not communicate with the immobilizer. This can occur when the battery is replaced or when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa car locksmith can sometimes solve this issue, but it might be necessary to visit a dealership for your key programmed again.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key you must first attempt to backup your device. If this does not solve the issue, you can disassemble your key fob to conduct a visual inspection. Verify that nothing on the buttons are loose or damaged. These parts get frequent use and may be jostled loose over time. It's best to have them welded in place by an expert if they are loose. In many instances, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is especially the case for keys that have been accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob still not working after you have tried a new one, it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs could be damaged by water or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, including those that connect to battery terminals in the remote, can also be damaged or disconnected. It's possible that you need to reset the key fob and it could be something you can tackle by yourself if have a spare fob of the same model and make.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car doors. It's a necessary step to safeguard your vehicle and to prevent other people from being able to use your key fob to gain access your vehicle or cause problems with its electrical system. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear can cause problems with the programming of your key fob. It's important to have your key fob reset correctly by a professional who is equipped with the appropriate equipment.
It's also possible that the problem could be with the buttons themselves which could be a less complicated fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs usually have rubberized buttons which can be damaged or loosen over time. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged you might try manually adjusting them.
It is recommended to open the key fob and take a look at it, but be cautious. Some fobs aren't equipped with an easy release mechanism, so you may need a screwdriver or some other tool to pry them apart. Certain fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without the use of specialized tools. You'll have to go to a dealer to get them professionally opened. You can utilize a spare keyfob of the same model and brand to access the programming mode of your vehicle. Based on the model of your car, this may involve closing and locking the doors, turning the lights and other electronics off and on and pressing a certain set of buttons in a particular sequence.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame if the buttons on your key fob do not function or require pressing them extremely hard. Dropping the key fob on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object can impact the way it performs. If this is the case you'll have to remove the key fob and inspect it thoroughly to determine if any of the buttons appear to be damaged or are out of the right place. If this is the case, a locksmith could repair it for you.
The failure of buttons can be caused by dirt or crud trapped between the buttons. It is important to clean your key fob regularly using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. You may have to scrub the surface of the keys. You should also try to determine if the problem is related to the locks on your vehicle or with the key fob itself. If you don't own a spare key, you can try using the keys of a different vehicle to see if it works.
The condition of the battery will also determine if you should reprogram the key fob. If your key fob is not able to operate after you replace the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery's terminal contacts are damaged. You can also deprogram your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you're out of range, or by disconnecting your car's battery.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery you need to re-programme it to the car. This will be dependent on the type of vehicle however, generally, you'll have to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car, insert the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position and then press the remote button. Usually the interior and exterior lights will light up if this is successful. It is then possible to test your key fob to ensure that it is programmed to the vehicle. In more rare cases the key fob may be inoperable if there's an issue with the door lock itself.