Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are very useful and convenient, however they can be a hassle when they stop working. There are fortunately, simple fixes that are able to bring them back up and running.
First, try replacing More Signup bonuses . Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and readily available.
Broken Electronics
The electronic circuit board that is in your remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your car. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't work correctly. Unlike battery failure, which is generally quite easy for most drivers to fix at home, damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will require a professional locksmith or dealer for your car.
Most remote key fobs are powered by a lithium-ion coin batteries, which have a long shelf life. However they won't last for long. Change the batteries could solve your problem, especially when they've been in use for a while. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time and you're surprised to discover that the buttons aren't working at all, even when the batteries are fresh. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot of bouncing and may break or become unresponsive over time. In this instance, removing and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to solve the issue.
If the buttons on your remote aren't responding, you may need to reprogramme it to match the system of your car. This is typically done by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are closed. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but you can find the instructions on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of plastic you can take off the cover by pulling it apart. Be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. This is best done with needle-nosed pliers which have longer tips. They are able to easily grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers with super glue, melted tallow, or putty can assist them to grip delicate components. This is something that an automotive locksmith could do, as incorrect methods could cause damage to the electronic components. If you try to forcefully break the fob apart can damage the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally snap off any buttons connected to it.
A defective transponder chip
If you've managed to start your car with the remote key, but not again, it could indicate that there is a problem with your transponder chip. This is because your key relies on this small electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to inform it that your key is valid and you'll be able to start your vehicle. 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 happen in newer ones as well. The transponder chip wears out over time. The chip can be replaced by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some cases the chip inside your key could be dead. In this situation the dealer will need to replace it. This is the most expensive but necessary way to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the chip inside the key has become damaged that means it no longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen if the battery is replaced or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can fix this issue, however you may need to visit the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key, you should first attempt to backup your device. If this does not solve the issue, disassemble the key fob to conduct a visual inspection. It is important to ensure that there are no buttons that appear to be damaged or loose. These components see a lot of use and are easily moved around over time. It is best to have them welded in place by a professional if they are loose. This will often restore the functionality of your key fob. This is particularly applicable to keys that were accidentally put in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob not working after you've tried a different one it could be due to a variety of other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water, or dropped or dropped on. Internal connections, like ones that connect to battery terminals in the remote, could also be damaged or disconnected. You may need to reprogram your key fob in case you do not have a spare of the same kind and model.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the doors of your car. It's a crucial step to safeguard your vehicle and to prevent other people from using your key fob to access your car or cause problems with the electrical system. Some engine error codes, or even normal wear and tear, can corrupt the programming of your key fob. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob properly.
It's possible that the problem is in the buttons, which is a much more straightforward fix than replacing the whole key fob. Key fobs often come with rubberized buttons that could be damaged or loosen over time. If you are able to 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. Certain fobs do not have an easy release mechanism, and you might need a small screwdriver or some other tool to break them. Others are sealed and can't be opened without special tools, so you'll likely need to take it to a dealership to have it opened professionally. You can use a spare keyfob that is the same model and make to start the programming mode of your vehicle. This could require you to shut and lock the doors, turn on and off the lights as well as electronics, and then use a set of buttons in a sequence that is specific to your vehicle.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that do not work or need to be pressed very hard to perform, it could be the result of mechanical damage. Dropping the key fob onto concrete or accidentally hitting one of the buttons with a sharp object can impact the way it works. You'll need take apart the key fob and carefully look at it to determine if there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. A locksmith will fix it for you if this is the case.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob using the help of a cotton swab which has been submerged in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface on the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue lies related to your car lock or the key fob. If you don't have an additional key fob to test, you might consider using the keys on a different vehicle to determine if they work as well.
The condition of the battery will determine if you have to reprogram the key fob. If your key fob doesn't function after replacing the batteries, the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob repeatedly when you are out of range, or disconnecting your car battery could also deprogram an electric key fob.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, you need to re-programme it to the car. This will be dependent on the model of vehicle however, generally, you'll need 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. If this works then the interior and exterior lights will flash. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is programmed with your vehicle. In rare instances, a key fob can be inoperable if there's an issue with the door locks themselves.