Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, but they can be frustrating when they stop working. Thankfully, there are some quick fixes that will usually get them working again.
Replace the battery first. The majority of fobs are powered with lithium coin cells. These are cheap and easy to locate.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board that is in your car key remote transmits and interprets signals for your car. The key fob won't function if this board is damaged. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require an auto-locksmith who is a professional or a dealer in your car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a decent time-to-life, but won't last for a long time. If you've been using the batteries for a long period of time, changing them will probably solve your issue. You may be surprised if you've been using your remote for a long time and the buttons aren't responding at all. This is true even if the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot jostling and may break or become inactive with time. If this happens, removing the buttons and cleaning them prior to replacing them can often solve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't responding, you may require reprogramming it to work with the car's system. 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 ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of an exterior made of plastic, it's possible to remove the cover and pull it apart. Be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is needle-nose pliers with longer tips that can more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating the pliers with super glue, melted tallow or putty can help them hold delicate parts. This is something an automotive locksmith could use, since improper methods could damage the electronic components. The attempt to forcefully pull the fob off could damage the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally cut off any buttons connected to it.
A defective 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 on this small electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to inform it that your key is valid and you should be able start the vehicle. If the chip isn't able to transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down your vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older cars however, it can happen in modern vehicles also. This is due to the transponder chip can wear out over time. This part can be replaced by a locksmith for cars however, it can be costly.
In certain cases the chip inside your key may be completely dead. If this is the case, it will need to be replaced by a dealer. This is the most costly but essential option to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip has become corrupted. This means that it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen if the battery is replaced or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this issue, however you may need to go to the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key, the first thing you need to try is an alternative. If this doesn't solve the issue, take apart your key fob and conduct an examination. Make sure that no buttons appear to be broken or damaged. These parts are used a lot and may become loose as time passes. It's best to have them welded in place by a professional when they're loose. This is often a way to restore the functionality of your key fob. This is especially true for keys that have been accidentally put into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a fresh battery, but the key fob doesn't function, there could be 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 be damaged or broken. It's possible to reset the key fob and this may be something you can tackle by yourself if have a spare fob from the same model and brand.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the vehicle to ensure that only you can unlock the doors of your car. It's a necessary step to safeguard your car and keep others from being able to use your key fob to access your car or cause problems with the electrical system. Certain engine error codes or even normal wear and tear can alter the programming and prevent your key fob from functioning. It's important to have your key fob reprogrammed properly by a professional who has the appropriate equipment.
It's also possible that the problem is with the buttons, which can be a less complicated fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs usually feature rubberized buttons that can be damaged or loosen over time. If remote car key repairs see that the buttons don't appear to be damaged, you might be able to manually adjust them.
It is best to open the key fob and take a look at it, but be cautious. Certain key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You may require a small tool or screwdriver to break them. Others are sealed and can't be opened without specialized tools, so you'll likely have to go to a dealership to have it opened professionally. You can use a spare keyfob that is the same model and make to access the programming mode of your vehicle. Depending on the car you drive, 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 specific sequence.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be the cause if your key fob's buttons aren't working or require you to press them very hard. The key fob's function could be affected by a fall on concrete or accidentally hitting the button by using a sharp object. It is necessary to remove the key fob, then examine it to see whether there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. A locksmith can fix it for you, if that's the case.
Failing buttons can also be due to dirt or debris that has accumulated between the buttons. It is important to clean your key fob regularly with the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. It is also possible 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 have an extra key, try using the keys of a different vehicle to see if the problem is solved.
The condition of the battery will determine if you should reprogram the key fob. If your key fob is unable to operate after you replace the batteries, it most likely indicates that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. You can also reset your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too many times when you are out of range, or by disconnecting your car's battery.
If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. It will depend on your particular vehicle model, but generally you'll require locking and unlocking the doors manually, insert the key into the ignition, change it to accessory, then press the wireless remote. If this is successful the exterior and/or interior lights should light up. You can test the key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed. In more rare cases keys can not function if there is an issue with the door lock itself.