Car Remote Key Repair

Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, however they can be frustrating when they stop working. There are fortunately, quick fixes that will usually bring them back up and running.

Replace the battery first. The majority of fobs utilize lithium coin cells, which are cheap and easy to find.

Broken Electronics

The electronic circuit board inside the remote car key transmits and interprets signals for your car. If the board is damaged the key fob will not function properly. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require an auto-locksmith who is a professional or a car dealer.

Most remote key fobs use lithium ion coin batteries which have a decent time-how to repair car key fob-life, but won't last forever. If you've been using batteries for a long period of time replacing them could solve the issue. You may be surprised if you've used your remote for some time and the buttons do not respond in any way. This can happen even when the batteries are brand new. The buttons on your keyfob are exposed to a lot of jostling and may break or become unresponsive over time. If this is the case removal of the buttons and cleaning them before placing them back in place will usually resolve the problem.

If the buttons on your remote don't work, you may need to reprogram it to match the system in your car. This is usually done by turning the key in the ignition several times with the doors shut. This will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but you can find the instructions on the internet or consult a professional.

If the key fob is made of plastic, you can remove the cover by prying it apart. Be careful not to scratch any buttons or internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will more easily grasp small parts. Lubricating pliers with putty, super glue or melted tallow can help them grasp delicate components. This is something that an automotive locksmith could use, since improper methods could damage the electronics. The attempt to forcefully pull the fob apart can damage the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally snap off any buttons attached to it.

Faulty Transponder Chip

Transponder chips can malfunction if you have previously had the ability to start your car with the remote key, but you are unable to do so again. This is because the key relies on a small electronic component in order to communicate with the immobilizer system. It sends a signal to the system that your key is legitimate and that you should be capable of starting the engine. If the chip is unable to correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer is disabled for your vehicle.

This issue is more prevalent in older cars, however it is also a problem in modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears away over time. This part can be replaced by a car locksmith, but it is expensive.

In some cases the chip may be dead. In this instance the dealer will have to replace it. This will be the most expensive option however, it is often required to get your vehicle back on the road.

Another possibility is that the key's chip has been damaged. This means it can not communicate with the immobilizer. This could happen if the battery is changed or if the key has been physically damaged. A Mesa car locksmith can sometimes solve this issue, but it might be necessary to go to the dealership for your key reprogrammed.

If you are having problems with your remote key, you must first try a backup. If this doesn't resolve the issue, disassemble the key fob to conduct a visual inspection. It is important to ensure that there are no buttons that appear to be damaged or loose. These parts see lots of use and can easily be jostled loose over time. It's best to have them welded in place by a professional if they are loose. This can often bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is especially true for keys that have been accidentally inserted into the wrong ignition lock cylinder.

Damaged Battery

If you've tried a new battery but the key fob is still unable to work, there may be other issues. Fobs may be damaged by water, dropping them or stepping over them, and internal connections, such as the ones that connect the battery terminals inside the remote, could be damaged or disconnected. You may have to reprogram your key fob if you don't have a spare that is the same type and model.

Modern key repair service fobs need to be programmed to match the car remote key fob repair and ensure that only you have the ability to unlock the car's doors. It's a necessary step to protect your car and prevent others from being able to use your key fob to access your car 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. It is essential to get your key fob reprogrammed correctly by a professional with the proper equipment.

It's possible that the issue is with the buttons and this could be a less complicated solution 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 are able to see that the buttons aren't damaged you could try adjusting them manually.

It's best to open up the key fob and take a look at it, but be cautious. Some fobs aren't equipped with an easy release mechanism, and you may need a screwdriver or another tool to pry them apart. Some fobs are sealed and are not openable without special tools. You'll have to bring them to a dealer to have them professionally opened. If you have an extra key fob for the same model and manufacturer you want to use it, try using it to access the programming mode of your car. Depending on your car it could involve closing and locking the doors, switching the lights and other electronics off and on and pressing a certain set of buttons in a certain order.

Failing Buttons

If your key fob has buttons that don't work or require being press very hard to work, it could be the result of mechanical damage. The key fob's function could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting a button with a sharp object. If this is the case, you'll need 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. If this is the case, a locksmith could fix it for you.

Dirt or crud can also cause buttons to fail. Clean your key fob using a cotton swab that has been immersed in alcohol. It is also possible to clean the surface of the keys. It is also important to determine if the problem is with your Mobile Car Key Repair's locks or with the key fob itself. If you don't have an additional key fob to test, consider using the keys in a different vehicle to see if they function also.

The condition of the battery will also determine if you need to change the programming of 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 too often while you're out of range or disconnecting your car battery can also cause the deprogramming of an electric key fob.

If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, you must have it reprogrammed for your car. This will depend on the vehicle model, but generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the car's doors, insert the key fob into the ignition, rotate it to the accessory position, and then press the button on the remote. If this is successful, the exterior and/or interior lights should light up. It is then possible to test your key fob to confirm that it is successfully programmed with your vehicle. In rarer cases, the key fob may be inoperable due to an issue with the door lock.