The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Received About Remote Key Repair

Car Remote Key Repair Modern car remote keys are useful and convenient, however they can be a hassle when they stop working. There are a few easy solutions to make them work again. The first step is to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by lithium coin cells. They are inexpensive and easy to locate. Broken Electronics The remote car key you have an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob will not perform as it should. Contrary to battery failure, which is generally very simple for most drivers to repair at home Damage to the transmitter or receiver of your remote key will require a professional auto locksmith or your dealer in the car. The majority of remote key fobs powered by lithium ion coin battery, which has a long shelf life. However they will not last for long. Changing the batteries will likely solve your problem, especially when they've been in use for a while. car key remote repair near me may be surprised if you've used your remote for a while and the buttons do not respond in any way. This is the case even if the batteries are new. The buttons on your keyfob are exposed to a lot of bouncing and may break or become inactive with time. In this situation, taking off and cleaning the buttons is usually enough to fix the problem. If your remote's buttons don't work, you may have to re-program it to match the system in your vehicle. This is typically accomplished by turning the ignition key a few times while the doors are closed. The process will vary depending on your car's make and model, but you will be able to locate instructions online or contact an expert for assistance. If the key fob is made of plastic you can remove the cover by tearing it open. Be careful not to damage the buttons or internal components. This can be done with a pair needle-nosed pliers that have longer tips. They are able to grasp small components. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow, or putty can help them hold delicate parts. This is something an automotive locksmith can do, as incorrect techniques could damage the electronic components. Trying to forcefully pry the fob off could break the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally break any buttons attached to it. Faulty Transponder Chip Transponder chips can fail if you've previously been able to start the vehicle using the remote key but cannot do it again. This is because the key relies on a tiny electronic component to communicate with immobilizer system. It transmits the signal to the system to let it know that your key is valid and you should be able begin the vehicle. If the chip fails to properly transmit this message, the immobilizer is disabled for your vehicle. This problem is more frequent in older cars, but it can also occur in modern vehicles. The transponder chip wears away over time. This part can be replaced by a locksmith for cars however it is costly. In some instances, the chip in your key could be dead. In this situation the dealer will have to replace it. This will be the most expensive option, but it is usually necessary in order to get your car back on the road. Another possibility is that the chip inside your key has been damaged that means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This could happen if the battery is replaced or if your key is physically damaged. A Mesa car locksmith can sometimes fix this, but it may be necessary to visit a dealership if you need to get your key reprogrammed. If you're having issues with your remote key, you must first attempt to backup your device. If this doesn't resolve the issue, take apart your key fob and do an inspection. You should make sure that there are no buttons that appear to be broken or loose. These parts get frequent use and may be jostled loose over time. If they are loose it is a good idea to have them reattached by a professional. This will often restore the functionality of your key fob. This is particularly applicable to keys that were accidentally inserted in 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 dropping them or stepping on them, and internal connections, like the ones that connect the battery terminals within the remote, may also be broken or disconnected. You may need to reprogram your key fob if do not have a spare similar kind and model. Modern key fobs need to be programmed to work with the vehicle to ensure that only you can unlock the car's doors. It's a must to safeguard your car and to prevent other people from using your key fob to gain access your vehicle or cause issues with its electrical system. Certain engine error codes or even normal wear and tear can alter the programming and prevent your key fob from working. Professionals equipped with the right tools can reprogram your key fob properly. It's possible that the issue is with the buttons themselves and this could be a simpler solution than replacing the entire key fob. Key fobs usually feature rubberized buttons that can be damaged or loosen up over time. If you can see that the buttons aren't damaged you might try manually adjusting them. It's best to open up the key fob and look at it, but be aware. Certain key fobs don't have an easy release mechanism. You may need a screwdriver or small tool to break them. Some fobs are sealed and cannot be opened without specialized 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 start your car's programming mode. It may require you to close and lock the doors, switch on and off lights and electronics, and press a set of buttons in a sequence that is unique to your car. Failing Buttons If your key fob has buttons that don't work or require being pressing very hard in order to perform it could be the result of mechanical damage. The key fob's function could be damaged by dropping it onto concrete or accidentally hitting an item with a sharp object. If this is the case you'll have to remove the key fob and carefully see if any of the buttons appear to be damaged or out of place. A locksmith can repair it for you if this is the case. Dirt and crud can cause buttons to fail. It is essential to clean your keys frequently using the help of a cotton swab that has been soaked in alcohol. You may have to scrub the surface of the keys. It is also important to determine if the issue is related to the locks on your vehicle or with the key fob itself. If you don't have a spare key, try using the keys of a different vehicle to see if the problem is solved. The condition of the battery will determine if you need to change the programming of the key fob. If the key fob you have is not able to function after replacing the batteries the terminal contacts of the battery are likely damaged. You can also reset your electric key fob by pressing the buttons too often when you're out of range or disconnecting your car's battery. If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery you must have it reprogrammed for your car. This will be dependent on the specific vehicle model however, generally you'll need to manually lock and unlock the doors of your car and then insert the key fob into the ignition, turn it to the accessory position and then press the button on the remote. If this is working the exterior and/or interior lights should light up. Then, you can test your key fob to verify that it has been successfully programmed to the vehicle. In more rare cases keys can be inoperable if there's an issue with the door locks themselves.