10 Facts About Remote Key Repair That Will Instantly Put You In A Good Mood
Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, but they can be frustrating when they stop working. There are fortunately, quick fixes that will usually bring them working again.
Replace the battery first. The majority of fobs utilize lithium coin cells, which are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The remote car key you have an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If the circuit board is damaged, the key fob will not work correctly. In contrast to battery failure, which is typically quite easy for most drivers to fix at home damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will probably require a professional auto locksmith or dealer for your car.
Most remote key fobs are powered by a lithium ion coin batteries, which have an extended shelf life. However, they will not last forever. Changing the batteries will likely solve your issue, especially those who have had them for a long time. You might be shocked if you have been using your remote for some time and the buttons do not respond at all. This is true even when the batteries are brand new. The buttons on your keyfob will be subjected to a lot jostling and may break or become unresponsive with time. In this instance, removing and cleaning the buttons can solve the issue.
If your remote's buttons still not working, you might have to re-program it to match the system of your car. This is typically done by turning the ignition key several times while the doors are shut. key fob repairs will differ based on your car's model and make, but you will be able to locate instructions online or contact a professional for assistance.
If the key fob is made of a plastic exterior it is possible to take off the cover and pull it off. Be careful not to damage the buttons or internal components. The best tool to use for this is needle-nose pliers with longer tips that can more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow or putty can help them grip delicate components. It's recommended to hire an auto locksmith perform this, as improper methods could cause damage to the electronic components inside. Trying to forcefully pry the fob apart can damage the plastic, and it's possible to accidentally cut off any buttons that are connected to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously had the ability to start your car with the remote key, but you haven't been able to do it again. This is because the key relies upon the small electronic component in order to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits a signal to the system that your key is valid and that you should be able to start the engine. If the chip doesn't correctly transmit this signal the immobilizer will shut down the vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older vehicles however, it can happen in modern vehicles too. The transponder chip wears down over time. This component can be repaired by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some instances, the chip in your key could be dead. If this is the scenario, the chip will need to be replaced by an auto dealer. This will be the most expensive option, but it is usually required to get your car back on the road.
The other possibility is that the chip inside your key has become corrupted and it is unable to longer communicates properly with the immobilizer system. This can occur when the battery is replaced or when there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this problem, but you may need to visit the dealer to get your key programmed.
If you're having problems with your remote key, the first thing you should try is backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can disassemble the key fob to conduct a visual inspection. You should make sure that none of the buttons appear to be broken or loose. These parts are often used and may become loose over time. If they are loose it's a good idea to have them reattached by a professional. In most instances, this will restore your key fob to full functionality. This is particularly applicable to keys that have been accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If you've tried a brand new battery, but the key fob still won't work, there may be other issues. Fobs can be damaged by water or dropped or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, like ones that connect to battery terminals of the remote, may be damaged or broken. You may have to reprogram your key fob if don't have a spare that is the same kind and model.
Modern key fobs should be programmed to work with your car and ensure that only you can open the doors of your car. It's a must to protect your car and prevent others from being able to use your key fob to access your vehicle or cause problems with the electrical system. Certain engine error codes, or even normal wear-and-tear can corrupt the programming and stop your key fob from working. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the problem is in the buttons that are a much more straightforward fix than replacing the whole key fob. Most key fobs feature rubberized buttons that are jostled around all the time, and can break or become loose. If you are able to see that the buttons aren't damaged you could try adjusting them manually.
Open the fob key to look at it, but be cautious. Some key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You might require a small tool or screwdriver to pry them apart. Others are sealed and can't be opened with specialized tools, so you'll likely need to go to a dealership to have it professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same model and make to start the programming mode of your car. This could require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off the lights and electronics, and press a set of buttons in a sequence that is unique to your car.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage may be the reason if the buttons on your key fob don't function or require you to press them forcefully. The key fob's functionality can be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting an item with a sharp item. It is necessary to remove the key fob and 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 the result of dirt or debris that has accumulated between the buttons. It is recommended to clean your keys fob using the help of a cotton swab which has been immersed in alcohol. You may need to clean the surface of the keys. You should also determine if the issue is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't have an extra key fob to test, you might consider using the keys in a different vehicle to determine if they work as well.
The condition of the battery will determine if you need to reprogram the key fob. If your key fob fails to operate after you replace the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob repeatedly while out of range or disconnecting your car battery can also erase the programming of the electronic key fob.
If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, you must have it reprogrammed for the car. This will be dependent on the particular vehicle model, but generally, you'll need to manually lock and unlock the car's doors by inserting the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position and then press the button on the remote. If this is successful then the interior and exterior lights should light up. It is possible to test the key fob in order to verify that it was successfully programmed. In less rare cases keys can be inoperable if there's an issue with the door locks themselves.