Car Remote Key Repair
Modern remotes for cars are useful and convenient, however they can be frustrating when they stop working. Thankfully, there are some quick fixes that can usually bring them working again.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs use lithium coin cells, which are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
Your car key remote has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If the circuit board is damaged, the key fob won't work correctly. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require a professional auto-locksmith or your dealer in your car.
The majority of remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin batteries which have a decent time-to-life, but won't last for a long time. The change of the batteries is likely to solve your problem, especially if you've had them for a while. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time, you might be surprised to discover that the buttons aren't working in any way, even if the batteries are in good condition. Since the buttons on your key fob get a lot of jostling and rubbing, they may fail or cease to function over time. If this is the case removal of the buttons and cleaning them before placing them back in place will usually resolve your problem.
If the buttons on your remote not working, you might need to reprogram it to match the system of your car. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are shut. This will depend on the model and make of your car, but you can find the instructions online or seek professional help.
If the key fob is made of a plastic exterior it is possible to take off the cover and pry it apart. However, be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to use to accomplish this is needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will better grasp small components. Lubricating pliers with putty, melted tallow or super glue will help them grasp delicate components. It's recommended to employ an auto locksmith perform this, since improper techniques could cause damage to the electronic components within. Trying to forcefully pry the fob apart could damage the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally cut off the buttons that are attached to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
If you've managed to start your car successfully using the remote key, but not the next time, it could indicate a problem with the transponder chip. This is because your key relies on this tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system to let it know that your key is in good condition, and you'll be able start the vehicle. If the chip fails to transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older cars, but it can also be found in newer vehicles. The transponder chip wears out over time. This part can be repaired by a car locksmith however it is costly.
In some instances the chip inside your key could be dead. In this instance, the dealer will have to replace it. This is the most expensive option however, it is often necessary in order to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip inside your key has been damaged that means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen when the battery is replaced, or it can occur when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa locksmith for cars can solve this issue, but it may be necessary to visit the dealer for your key programmed once more.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key the first thing to consider is a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can take apart your key fob and conduct a visual inspection. It is important to ensure that there are no buttons that appear to be broken or loose. These components see frequent use and can easily be lost over time. If they're loose it is best to get them soldered back in place by an experienced professional. This will often bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is particularly the case for keys that have been accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a brand new battery, but the key fob still won't function, there could be other issues. Fobs may be damaged by dropping them, or stepping on them, and the internal connections, such as those that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may also be damaged or broken. It's possible that you need to reset the key fob and it could be something you can tackle on your own if you have a spare fob of the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you can unlock the doors of your car. This is a vital step to secure your vehicle and prevent others from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system malfunctions. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear could cause a problem with the programming of your key fob. It's important to have your key fob reprogrammed properly by a professional who is equipped with the right equipment.
It's possible that the issue is in the buttons, which is a much more straightforward fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs often have rubberized buttons which can be damaged or loosen over time. If you see 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 do not have a simple release mechanism. You might require a screwdriver or small tool to pry them apart. Certain fobs are sealed and are not openable without special tools. You'll need to take them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. You can utilize a spare keyfob of the same make and model to access the programming mode of your vehicle. Depending on your car this could mean closing and locking the doors, turning lights and other electronics off and on, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a certain sequence.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not work or require being pressed very hard to function, it could be because of mechanical damage. The key fob's function could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting the button with a sharp object. If this happens, you'll need to take the key fob apart and inspect it thoroughly to see if any of the buttons appear to be damaged or out of place. A locksmith can repair it for you, if that's the case.
Failing buttons can also be due to dirt or crud trapped between the buttons. Clean your key fob using the help of a cotton swab which has been soaked in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface on the keys. You should also determine if the problem is related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, think about using the keys on a different vehicle to determine if they work as well.
The condition of the battery will determine whether or not you have to change the programming of the key fob. If your key fob is not able to operate after you replace the batteries, it most likely indicates that the battery's terminal contacts are damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too often while out of range or disconnecting your car battery can also cause the deprogramming of an electronic key fob.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery you should have it reprogrammed to your vehicle. This Web page will be dependent on the specific vehicle model however, 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 push a button on the remote. If this is working the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. Then, you can test your key fob to ensure that it is programmed with the vehicle. In less rare cases, a key fob can be inoperable if there's an issue with the door lock itself.