Car Remote Key Repair
Modern remotes for cars are useful and convenient, but they can be frustrating when they stop working. There are a few quick fixes to make them work again.
First, you should replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and easy to locate.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board inside the remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your vehicle. The key fob will stop working if this board is damaged. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require an auto-locksmith who is a professional or a car dealer.
Most remote key fobs are powered by a lithium-ion coin batteries, which have a long shelf life. However, they will not last forever. The change of the batteries is likely to solve your problem, especially those who have had them for a long time. If you've been using your remote fob for a while and you're surprised to discover that the buttons don't respond at all, even when the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot jostling and may break or become unresponsive with time. If this happens taking them off and cleaning them prior to placing them back in place will usually resolve your problem.
If the buttons on your remote not working, you might have to program it again to match the system of your car. This is usually done by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are closed. The process will vary depending on the make and model, but you will be able to locate instructions online or contact an expert for assistance.
If the key fob is made of an exterior made of plastic it is possible to remove the cover and pry it apart. However, be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. This is best done using needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to grasp small components. Lubricating pliers using putty, melted tallow or super glue can aid in grabbing delicate parts. It's also a good idea to have an auto locksmith perform this, since improper techniques can damage the electronic components inside. The plastic could be damaged in the event that you take the fob apart with force. It is also possible that the buttons attached to it will be ripped off accidentally if forcefully pry it apart.
A defective transponder chip
Transponder chips could malfunction if you have previously been able to start the vehicle using the remote key, but are unable to do so again. This is because your key relies upon this tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It transmits a signal to the system that your key is valid and that you should be in a position to start the engine. If the chip is unable to properly transmit this message, the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.
This issue is most frequent in older vehicles However, it can occur in newer ones too. This is because the transponder chip can wear out over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this portion of your key, but this can be expensive.
In some instances the chip inside your key might be dead. In this case the dealer will need to replace it. This is the most expensive but essential option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the key's chip is damaged. This means that it will not communicate with the immobilizer. car key repair cost could happen when the battery is replaced or if the key is physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this problem, but you may need to visit the dealership to have your key programmed.
If you're having issues with your remote key, you should first try a backup. If this does not solve the issue, you can disassemble the key fob to examine it visually. Make sure there are no buttons that appear to be broken or loose. These parts are used a lot and can loosen over time. It's best to have them soldered in place by a professional when they're loose. This is often a way to bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is especially applicable to keys that have been accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob still not working after you've tried a different one it could be due to other problems. Fobs may be damaged by water, or dropped or dropped on. Internal connections, such as those that connect to battery terminals on the remote, can also be damaged or disconnected. It's possible to change the programming of the key fob, and it could be something you can do yourself if you have a spare fob from the same model and brand.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and ensure that only you can unlock the car's doors. This is a vital step to secure your vehicle and to 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 cause problems with the programming of your key fob. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogram your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue lies with the buttons and is an more straightforward solution than replacing the entire key fob. Often, key fobs have rubberized buttons that are tossed around all the time, and may break or loosen. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you might be able to manually adjust them.
It is best to open the key fob and look at it, but be careful. Certain key fobs don't have a simple release mechanism. You may require an instrument or screwdriver to remove them. Some 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. You can use a spare keyfob from the same make and model to start the programming mode of your car. It may require you to close and lock the doors, turn on and off the lights and electronics, and use a set of buttons in a sequence that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not work or need to be pressing very hard in order to perform, it could be because of mechanical damage. Dropping the key fob on concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object could affect how well it works. If this is the case you'll need to remove the key fob and carefully see if any of the buttons appear be damaged or out of their place. A locksmith will fix it for you if this is the case.
Failure of buttons could also be due to dirt or crud that is trapped between the buttons. You should clean your key fob with an swab of cotton that has been submerged in alcohol. It may also be necessary to clean the surfaces of the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue is related to the locks on your vehicle or with the key fob itself. If you don't have an extra key fob to test, think about trying the keys on another vehicle to determine if they work also.
The decision of whether or not the key fob needs to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of its battery. If your key fob fails to operate after you replace the batteries, it most likely indicates that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too often when you are out of range, or disconnecting your car battery can also deprogram an electric key fob.
If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your car. This will depend on the type of vehicle, but generally, you'll have 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 push a button on the remote. If this is successful then the interior and exterior lights should flash. It is then possible to test your key fob to ensure that it is programmed to the vehicle. In rare cases the key fob might stop working due to a problem with the door lock.