Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful but they can be frustrating when they stop functioning. There are fortunately, simple fixes that are able to get them back up and running.
The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered with lithium coin cells. They are inexpensive and readily available.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. The key fob will stop working when the board is damaged. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith professional or your dealer in your car.
The majority of remote key fobs powered by a lithium ion coin battery, which has an extended shelf life. However, they will not last for long. If you've used the batteries for a long time replacing them could solve your issue. If you've been using your remote fob for a while, you might be surprised to discover that the buttons aren't responding in any way, even if the batteries are new. Since the buttons on your key fob undergo frequent jolts and rubbing, they may break or become inactive over time. If this is the case taking them off and cleaning them before reseating them will often resolve your issue.
If your remote's buttons still don't work, you may have to program it again to work with the system in your vehicle. This is usually done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are shut. The procedure will differ based on your car's make and model however, you can find instructions online or contact an expert for assistance.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can take off the cover by pulling it open. Be cautious not to damage the buttons or internal components. This can be done with a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They can easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers using putty, melted tallow or super glue can help them grasp delicate components. It's also a good idea to hire an automotive locksmith do this, since improper techniques can damage the electronic components within. 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.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously been able to start the car with the remote key but cannot do it again. This is because your key relies upon this tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to notify it that your key is valid and you'll be able begin the vehicle. If the chip does not correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer disables your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older cars however, it can happen in modern vehicles also. This is because the transponder chip wears out over time. This part can be replaced by a car locksmith however, it can be costly.
In certain situations, your chip may be dead. In this case the dealer will have to replace it. This is the most expensive but necessary option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip in your key has become corrupted, which means it no longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This could happen when the battery is changed or if your key is physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can solve this problem, but you may need to visit the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you are having problems with your remote key you should first try a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you should disassemble the key fob to examine it visually. Verify that nothing on the buttons appear to be broken or damaged. These parts are used a lot and may become loose over time. If they're loose it's best to get them re-soldered by a professional. This is often a way to bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is especially applicable to keys that have been accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is 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 dropping them, or stepping on them, and internal connections, such as the ones that connect the battery terminals inside the remote, may be broken or disconnected. It's possible that you need to change the programming of the key fob, and it could be something you can tackle yourself if you have a spare fob from the same model and brand.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car's doors. It's a must to safeguard your car and keep others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause problems with the electrical system. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear, can cause problems with the programming of your key fob. It is essential to have your key fob reset correctly by a professional with the proper equipment.
It's possible that the issue could be with the buttons themselves which could be a simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Often, key fobs have rubberized buttons that are jostled around all the time, and may break or loosen. If you are able to see that the buttons aren't damaged you might try manually adjusting them.
Open the key fob to inspect it, but be careful. Some key fobs do not have an easy release mechanism. You might require an instrument or screwdriver to break them. Some fobs are sealed, and are not openable without special tools. You'll have to bring them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. You can utilize a spare keyfob of the same model and make to access the programming mode of your car. Based on the model of your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, switching lights and electronics on and off by pressing a particular set of buttons in a certain order.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame when the buttons on your key fob don't function or require pressing them extremely hard. The key fob's function could be affected by a fall on concrete or accidentally hitting an item with a sharp object. You'll need take apart the key fob and examine it to see if there are any buttons that look damaged. If that is the case, a locksmith could fix it.
The accumulation of crud or dirt can cause buttons to fail. It is important to clean your key fob frequently using the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. It is possible to clean the surface on 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 have a spare key fob to test, you might consider using the keys on a different vehicle to determine if they work as well.
The decision of whether or not the key fob needs to be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of the battery. If the key fob you have is not able to work after replacing the batteries, the terminal contacts of the battery are likely 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 must have it reprogrammed for the car. remote key fob repair near me will depend on the specific vehicle model, but you'll generally require locking and unlocking the doors manually. Simply insert the key into the ignition, set it to accessory, then press the wireless remote. If this is successful the exterior and/or interior lights should flash. It is possible to test the key fob to confirm that it was successfully programmed. In rare instances the key fob could be inoperable due to problems with the door locks.