The No. 1 Question Everybody Working In Remote Key Repair Should Be Able Answer
Car Remote Key Repair
Modern car remotes are convenient and useful, but can be frustrating if they stop functioning. There are a few quick fixes to get them back in operation.
Replace the battery first. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. They are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
The remote car key you have an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your vehicle. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob will not function properly. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith professional or your dealer in your car.
The majority of remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin batteries that have a long time-to-life, but won't last for long. The change of the batteries is likely to solve the issue, particularly if you've had them for a long time. You may be surprised if you've been using your remote for a while and the buttons aren't responding in any way. This can happen even if the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob will be subjected to a lot of jostling and can break or become unresponsive over time. If this happens removal of the buttons, cleaning them, and replacing them can often solve the problem.
If the buttons on your remote don't work, you may have to re-program it to match the system of your vehicle. This is usually done by turning the key in the ignition several times while the doors are shut. The process will vary depending on your car's model and make, but you will be able to locate instructions online or contact a professional for help.
If the key fob has an exterior made of plastic, it's possible to remove the cover and pull it apart. But be careful not to scratch the buttons or other internal components. This is best done with a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to easily grasp small components. Lubricating pliers with putty, super glue or melted tallow will help them grasp delicate parts. This is something that locksmiths in the automotive industry can do, as incorrect methods could damage the electronic components. The plastic can be broken if you try to take the fob apart with force. It's also possible that the buttons that are attached to it will be ripped off accidentally if forcefully pull it apart.
Faulty transponder chip
Transponder chips could fail if you've previously successfully started the car with the remote key, but you are unable to do so again. This is because the key relies on the tiny electronic component to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits a signal to the system that your key is valid and you should be capable of starting the engine. If the chip isn't able to transmit this signal, the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.
This problem is more frequent in older vehicles, but can also happen in newer ones also. 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, however this can be expensive.
In some cases the chip inside your key could be dead. If this is the case, it will require replacement by an auto dealer. This is the most expensive option but is often necessary in order to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that the key's chip is damaged. This means that it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen when the battery is replaced, or if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can fix this issue, but you may have to visit the dealer to have your key programmed.
If you're having issues with your remote key the first thing you should try is an alternative. If car key repairs doesn't solve the issue, disassemble the key fob to conduct a visual inspection. You should make sure that all buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These components see lots of use and are easily jostled loose over time. It is best to have them welded in place by a professional when they're loose. In many cases, this will restore your key fob's functionality. This is particularly applicable to keys that were accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is still not working even after you've tried a different one it could be due to other problems. Fobs can be damaged by water or dropped or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, like those that connect to battery terminals on the remote, can also be broken or disconnected. It is possible to reprogramme your key fob if you don't have a spare of the same type and model.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car's doors. It's a necessary step to protect your car and to prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause problems with the electrical system. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear could cause a problem with the programming of your key fob. Professionals with the right equipment can reprogram your key fob correctly.
It's also possible that the problem could be with the buttons themselves, which can be a simpler fix than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs typically have rubberized buttons that are jostled around constantly and can break or become loose. If you see that the buttons don't appear to be damaged, you might need to adjust them manually.
It's best to open up the key fob and look at it, but be aware. Certain key fobs do not have an easy release mechanism. You may need a screwdriver or small tool to remove them. Certain fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without the use of specialized tools. You'll have to go to a professional to have them professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob from the same model and brand use of it to enter the programming mode of your car. Depending on the car you drive it could involve closing and locking the doors, switching lights and electronic devices on and off and pressing a certain set of buttons in a particular order.
Failing Buttons
If your key fob has buttons that don't work or need to be pressed very hard to function it could be because of mechanical damage. The key fob's function could be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting a button by using a sharp object. If this is the case you'll need to take the key fob apart and carefully check if any buttons appear to be broken or are out of the right place. A locksmith can repair it for you, if that's the case.
Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. It is important to clean your keys frequently using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. It is also possible to clean the surfaces of the keys. You should also determine if the issue is 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.
Whether or not the key fob should be reprogrammed is also dependent on the condition of its battery. If the key fob you have is not able to work after replacing the batteries, the terminal contacts of the battery could be damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too many times while out of range or disconnecting your car battery can also cause the deprogramming of the electronic key fob.
If the key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. It will depend on your particular vehicle model, but you'll generally need to lock and unlock the doors manually. Insert the key into the ignition, set it to accessory, and press a button on the remote that is wireless. Usually the interior and exterior lights will flash when this is successful. It is possible to test the key fob to verify that it was successfully programmed. In less rare cases, a key fob can not function if there is an issue with the door lock itself.