keys repair are useful and convenient, but can be frustrating when they stop working. There are a few easy fixes to get them back in operation.
The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. These are cheap and readily available.
Broken Electronics
Your remote car key has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If the board is damaged, the key fob will not work correctly. Contrary to battery failure, which is typically fairly simple for most drivers to fix at home Damage to the receiver or transmitter of the remote key will require a professional locksmith or dealer for your car.
The majority of remotes that use key fobs have lithium ion coin batteries which have a reasonably long lifespan, but they won't last for long. If you've used the batteries for a long period of time replacing them could solve the issue. You may be surprised if you've used your remote for a long time and the buttons aren't responding in any way. This can happen even if the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob are subjected to a lot jostling and can break or become unresponsive with time. If this is the case removal of the buttons, cleaning them, and replacing them can often solve your problem.
If the buttons on your remote still aren't working, you might need to reprogramme it to match the system of your car. This is typically done by turning the ignition key a few times while the doors are closed. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but you can find instructions on the internet or ask a professional for assistance.
If the key fob has a plastic exterior, it's possible to remove the cover and then pry it apart. But be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. This is best done using needle-nosed pliers which have longer tips. They are able to easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty melted tallow or super glue will help them grasp delicate parts. It's recommended to have an auto locksmith perform this, as improper methods can 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 that are attached to it may snap off accidentally if you try to forcefully break it.
Faulty transponder chip
Transponder chips can malfunction if you've previously had the ability to start your car using the remote key, but haven't been able to do it again. This is because the key relies on the small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends the signal to the system to notify it that your key is valid, and you should be able start your vehicle. If the chip fails to transmit this signal, the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.
This issue is more prevalent in older cars, but it can also be found in modern vehicles. This is due to the transponder chip may wear out over time. It is possible to get a locksmith for your car replace this portion of your key, but this could be costly.
In some cases the chip inside your key may be completely dead. In this situation the dealer will have to replace it. This will be the most expensive option, but is often necessary in order to get your vehicle back on the road.
Another possibility is that your key's chip is damaged. This means that it will not communicate with the immobilizer. This could happen when the battery is replaced or if the key is physically damaged. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this problem, but you may need to go to the dealer to have your key programmed.
If you're experiencing issues with your remote key you should first try a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, disassemble the key fob to conduct a visual inspection. Verify that nothing on the button appears to be loose or damaged. These parts are used a lot and can become loose as time passes. It is best to have them soldered in place by a professional if they are loose. This is often a way to restore the functionality of your key fob. This is especially the case for keys that have been accidentally put in the wrong ignition lock cylinder.
Damaged Battery
If the key fob is not working after you've tried a new one it could be due to other issues. Fobs could be damaged by water, or dropped or stepped on. Internal connections, like ones that connect to battery terminals in the remote, can 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 do by yourself if have a spare fob from the same model and manufacturer.
Modern key fobs must be programmed to match the car to ensure that only you are able to unlock the car doors. This is a vital step to secure your vehicle and prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access to your car or cause electrical system malfunctions. Some engine error codes or even normal wear and tear can cause problems with the programming of your key fob. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob correctly.
It's possible that the issue is with the buttons themselves and this could be a simpler solution than replacing the entire key fob. Often, key fobs have rubberized buttons that are jostled around constantly and can break or become loose. If you notice that the buttons don't appear to be damaged, you might be able to manually adjust them.
It is recommended to open the fob that you're using to look at it, but be cautious. Some fobs aren't equipped with an easy release mechanism, which means you might need a small screwdriver or another tool to break them. Others are sealed and can't be opened at all without specialized tools, so you'll likely have to take it to a dealership to have it opened professionally. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and make you want to use it, try using it to start your car's programming mode. This may require you to shut and lock the doors, turn on and off the lights and electronic devices, and then press a series of buttons in a sequence that is specific to your vehicle.
Failing Buttons
Mechanical damage could be the cause if your key fob's buttons don't function or require pressing them extremely forcefully. The key fob's functionality can be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting the button with a sharp item. If this happens you'll have to remove the key fob and inspect it thoroughly to determine whether any of the buttons appear be damaged or are out of the right place. A locksmith can fix it for you if this is the case.
Failing buttons can also be due to dirt or crud that is trapped between the buttons. It is recommended to clean your keys fob with an swab of cotton that has been immersed in alcohol. It may also be necessary to clean the surface of the keys themselves. You should also determine if the problem is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't own a spare key, try the keys in a different vehicle to see if it works.
The condition of the battery will determine if you have to reprogram the key fob. If your keyfob does not work after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery may be damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too often while you're out of range or disconnecting your car battery could also cause the deprogramming of an electronic key fob.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your car. It will depend on the particular model of vehicle and the type of key fob you have, but generally, you'll have to manually lock and unlock the car's doors, insert the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position, and push the button on the remote. Usually, the exterior and interior lights will flash if this method has worked. Then, you can test your key fob to ensure that it is programmed to the vehicle. In rare instances the key fob may stop working if there is an issue with the door locks themselves.