Car Remote Key Repair
Modern remotes for cars are useful and convenient, however they can be frustrating when they stop functioning. Thankfully, there are some simple fixes that are able to bring them back in operation.
The first step is to replace the battery. Most fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. They are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an internal electronic circuit board that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If this board is damaged, the key fob won't perform as it should. Damage to the transmitter or receiver will require a professional auto-locksmith or your dealer in your car.
car keys repair The Keylab of remotes that use key fobs have lithium ion coin batteries, which have a decent time-to-life, but won't last for a long time. If you've been using the batteries for a long time, changing them will probably solve the issue. You may be surprised when you've used your remote for a long time and the buttons do not respond in any way. This is true even when the batteries are brand new. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot of jostling and may break or become unresponsive with time. In this case, removing and cleaning the buttons will usually fix the problem.
If the buttons on your remote still don't respond, you may have to change the programming to match your car's system. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key repeatedly while keeping the doors closed. The method will vary based on the model and make however, you will be able to locate instructions online or consult a professional for help.
If the key fob is made of plastic, you can remove the cover by tearing it off. Be careful not to damage buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is pliers with needle-nose tips with longer tips, which can more easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue will help them grasp delicate components. This is something an automotive locksmith can do, as incorrect methods could cause damage to the electronic components. The attempt to forcefully pull the fob apart could cause damage to the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally cut off the buttons that are connected to it.
Faulty Transponder Chip
Transponder chips may malfunction if you've previously successfully started the car with the remote key, but you haven't been able to do it again. This is because your key relies upon 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 valid and you should be able start the vehicle. If the chip fails to transmit this signal it will cause the immobilizer to disable the vehicle.
This issue is frequent in older cars However, it can occur in more modern models also. This is because the transponder chip may wear out over time. This part can be repaired by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.
In some cases, your chip may be dead. In this instance the dealer will have to replace it. This is the most costly but essential option to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip is damaged. This means it can no longer communicate with the immobilizer. This can happen when the battery is replaced, or it can occur in the event of physical damage to the key. A Mesa car locksmith can sometimes solve this issue, but it is possible to visit a dealership for your key programmed once more.
If you're having issues with your remote key the first thing you should try is an alternative. If this doesn't resolve the issue, disassemble the key fob to examine it visually. It is important to ensure that none of the buttons appear to be damaged or loose. These parts see a lot of use and can easily be jostled loose over time. It is recommended to have them welded in place by a professional in case they're loose. This is often a way to make your key fob. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally placed in the wrong ignition lock.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is still not working after you've tried a new one it could be due to other issues. Fobs may be damaged by dropping them or stepping over them, and the internal connections, like those that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may also be damaged or broken. It's possible that you need to change the programming of the key fob, and it could be something you can tackle on your own if you have a spare fob from the same model and brand.
Modern key fobs need to be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you can unlock the car's doors. This is a crucial step to secure your vehicle and stop other people from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system issues. Certain engine error codes or wear and tear from normal wear and tear could corrupt the programming and stop your key fob from functioning. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogramme your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue is with the buttons which could be a less complicated fix than replacing the entire key fob. Often, key fobs have rubberized buttons that are tossed around all the time, and could break or get loose. If you notice that the buttons do not appear to be damaged, you may need to adjust them manually.
It is recommended to open the fob that you're using to look at it, but be cautious. Certain key fobs don't have an easy release mechanism. You might require a small tool or screwdriver to remove them. Some fobs are sealed and are not openable without special tools. You'll need to go to a professional to have them professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and make use of it to access the mode of programming for your car. Based on the model of your car, this may involve closing and locking the doors, turning lights and other electronics off and on and pressing a certain set of buttons in a certain order.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be to blame if your key fob's buttons don't function or require pressing them extremely in a very forceful manner. The key fob's function could be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting an item by using a sharp object. If this happens you'll need to take the key fob apart and examine it carefully to check whether any of the buttons appear be damaged or are out of their place. If that is the case, a locksmith could repair it for you.
The accumulation of crud or dirt can cause buttons to fail. It is recommended to clean your keys fob using the help of a cotton swab which has been immersed in alcohol. You may have to scrub the surface of the keys. You should also try to determine if the issue is with the locks of your car or with the key fob itself. If you don't have a spare key fob to test, you might consider trying the keys on another vehicle to determine if they work similarly.
If the key fob requires to be reprogrammed depends on the condition of its battery. If your keyfob does not work after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery could be damaged. You can also deprogram your electronic key fob by pressing the buttons too many times when you're out of range or disconnecting your car's battery.
If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your vehicle. This will depend on the particular type of vehicle however, generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the car's doors by inserting the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position and then press a button on the remote. If this is working then the interior and exterior lights will flash. You can test the key fob to confirm that it has been successfully programmed. In rare instances, the key fob may be inoperable due to an issue with the door locks.
