Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are useful and convenient however, they can be a pain if they stop functioning. There are a few easy solutions to make them work again.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and readily available.
Broken Electronics
Your car key remote has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. The key fob will cease to function when the board is damaged. Contrary to battery failure, which is typically very simple for most drivers to fix at home damage to the transmitter or receiver of the remote key will require a professional locksmith or dealer for your car.
Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long time-to-life, but won't last forever. If you've used the batteries for a long time, changing them will probably solve the issue. If you've been using your remote fob for a long time and you're surprised to discover that the buttons don't respond in any way, even if the batteries are fresh. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot jostling and can break or become unresponsive with time. If this is the case taking them off, cleaning them, and reseating them will often resolve your issue.
If the buttons on your remote still don't respond, you may need to reprogramme it to work with the car's system. This is usually done by pressing the ignition key multiple times while the doors are closed. This will depend on the model and make of your vehicle, however you can find the instructions online or seek professional help.
If the key fob is made of plastic you can remove the cover by tearing it apart. Be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which can more easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty super glue or melted tallow will help them grasp delicate components. It's also a good idea to employ an automotive locksmith do this, since improper techniques could damage the electronic components inside. The plastic could be damaged in the event that you remove the fob with force. It is also possible that the buttons attached to it will be ripped off accidentally if try to forcefully break it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
If you've been able to start your car using the remote key, but it's not working the next time, it could indicate an issue with the transponder chip. This is because the key relies upon the tiny electronic component to communicate with the immobilizer system. It signals the system that your key is valid and you should be in a position to start the engine. If the chip fails to transmit this signal, the immobilizer will disable the vehicle.
This problem is more common in older cars, but it can also occur in more modern vehicles. key repair car wears down over time. This part can be replaced by a locksmith for cars, but it is expensive.
In certain cases the chip inside your key could be dead. If this is the case, it will need to be replaced by an auto dealer. This is the most costly but necessary option to get your car back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip has been damaged. This means it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This could happen if the battery is changed or if the key is physically damaged. A Mesa locksmith in your car can solve this issue, but it is possible to visit the dealer if you need to get your key programmed once more.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key you should first try a backup. If this does not solve the issue, disassemble your key fob to perform a visual examination. Make sure that no buttons are loose or broken. These parts get a lot of use and are easily moved around over time. If they're loose, it's recommended to have them soldered back in place by a professional. This will often make your key fob. This is especially applicable to keys that were accidentally inserted in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a new battery and the key fob is still unable to work, there may be other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water, dropping them or stepping over them, and the internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals in the remote, may be damaged or broken. You may need to reprogram your key fob if you do not have a spare similar model and type.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match your vehicle and ensure that only you have the ability to unlock the car doors. 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 issues. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear, could cause a problem with the programming of your key fob. It is essential to get your key fob reprogrammed correctly by a professional who has the proper equipment.
It's also possible that the problem is with the buttons, which can be a more straightforward solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons that are tossed around constantly and can break or become loose. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged you could try adjusting them manually.
It is best to open the key fob and look at it, but be careful. Certain fobs do not have an easy release mechanism, so you may require a small screwdriver or another 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 have them professionally opened. You can utilize a spare keyfob of the same model and make to access the programming mode of your vehicle. Depending on your car, this may involve closing and locking the doors, turning lights and electronic devices on and off, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a certain order.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't function or require to be pressing very hard in order to work, it could be the result of mechanical damage. The key fob being dropped on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object may impact the way it works. You'll need take apart the key fob and examine it to see if there are any buttons that appear to be damaged. If this is the case, a locksmith could fix it.
The accumulation of crud or dirt can cause buttons to fail. It is essential to clean your key fob regularly using the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. You may have to scrub the surface of 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 own an extra key, try the keys in a different vehicle to see if the problem is solved.
If the key fob needs to be reprogrammed also depends on the condition of its battery. If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the batteries, the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too many times while out of range or disconnecting your car battery could also cause the deprogramming of an electronic key fob.
If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. It will depend on the specific car model, but generally you'll need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Insert the key into the ignition, change it to accessory, and press the wireless remote. If this is working, the exterior and/or interior lights will flash. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is programmed to the vehicle. In less rare cases, a key fob can be inoperable if there's an issue with the door lock itself.