Three Reasons To Identify Why Your Remote Key Repair Isn't Working (And The Best Ways To Fix It)

· 6 min read
Three Reasons To Identify Why Your Remote Key Repair Isn't Working (And The Best Ways To Fix It)

Car Remote Key Repair

Modern car remotes are useful and convenient however, they can be a pain when they stop working. There are fortunately, simple fixes that are able to bring them working again.

First, try replacing the battery. The majority of fobs utilize lithium coin cells, which are cheap and easily accessible.

Broken Electronics

Your car key remote has an electronic circuit board inside that transmits and interprets signals to your car. If this board is damaged the key fob will not perform as it should. Damage to the receiver or transmitter will require a professional auto-locksmith or your dealer in your car.

The majority of remote key fobs are powered by a lithium ion coin battery, which has a long shelf life. However they won't last for a long time. If you've been using the batteries for a long period of time, changing them will probably solve your issue. If you've been using your remote fob for a while, you might be surprised to discover that the buttons aren't working even though the batteries are in good condition. Since the buttons on your key fob get a lot of jostling, they can sometimes break or become inactive over time. In this case, removing and cleaning the buttons will usually solve the issue.

If the buttons on your remote still don't respond, you may have to change the programming to work with the car's system. This is typically accomplished by turning the key in the ignition several times with the doors shut. This will depend on the model and make of your car, but you can locate the steps on the internet or consult a professional.


If the key fob has a plastic exterior, it's possible to remove the cover and pry it off. Be careful not to damage the buttons or other internal components. The best tool to accomplish this is a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips, which will more easily grasp small pieces. Lubricating the pliers using super glue, melted tallow or putty can assist them to grasp delicate components. This is something that locksmiths in the automotive industry can perform, since the wrong techniques could damage the electronic components. If you try to forcefully break the fob apart could damage the plastic, and it's also possible to accidentally cut off any buttons attached to it.

A defective transponder chip

Transponder chips can malfunction if you've previously had the ability to start your vehicle using the remote key, but cannot do it again. This is because your key relies on 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 begin the vehicle. If the chip is unable to correctly transmit this message, the immobilizer will disable your vehicle.

This problem is more frequent in older vehicles However, it can occur in newer ones as well. This is due to the transponder chip can wear out over time. The chip can be repaired by a car locksmith however it is costly.

In some cases the chip may be dead. If this is the situation, it's going to require replacement by an auto dealer. This is the most costly but essential option to get your car back on the road.

The other possibility is that the chip inside your key has become corrupted that means it no longer works properly with the immobilizer system. This can happen when the battery is replaced or it can occur if there is physical damage to the key. A Mesa auto locksmith can resolve this issue, however you may have to visit the dealer to get your key programmed.

If you're having issues with your remote key you should first attempt to backup your device. If this does not solve the issue, take apart your key fob and perform a visual examination. Verify that nothing on the button appears to be loose or damaged. These parts get frequent use and can easily be moved around over time. It is recommended to have them soldered in place by an expert if they are loose. This is often a way to bring back the functionality of your key fob. This is especially true for keys that were accidentally put into the wrong ignition lock.

Damaged Battery

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

Modern key fobs need to be programmed to match the vehicle, and ensure that only you are able to unlock the car's doors. It's a crucial step to protect your car and to prevent other people from using your key fob to access your vehicle or cause issues with the electrical system. Certain 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 in a proper manner.

It's possible that the issue is with the buttons themselves which could be a simpler 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  key fob repairs  to determine that the buttons aren't damaged you might try manually adjusting them.

Open the key fob to inspect it, but take care. Some key fobs do not have a simple release mechanism. You may need a screwdriver or small tool to break them. Some fobs are sealed, and cannot be opened without the use of specialized tools.  remote key repair 'll have to bring them to a dealer to get them professionally opened. You can use a spare keyfob from the same model and make to start the programming mode of your vehicle. Based on the model of your car it could involve closing and locking the doors, switching lights and electronics on and off, and pressing a specific set of buttons in a certain order.

Failing Buttons

If your key fob has buttons that do not function or require to be pressed very hard to work it could be because of mechanical damage. The key fob's function could be affected by dropping it on concrete or accidentally hitting an item by using a sharp object. If this happens, you'll need to take the key fob apart and carefully see if any buttons appear to be broken or out of the right place. A locksmith can repair it for you, if that's the case.

Failing buttons can also be due to dirt or debris that has accumulated between the buttons. You should clean your key fob with a cotton swab that has been submerged in alcohol. It is also possible to clean the surfaces of the keys. You should also determine if the problem is with your car locks or the key fob. If you don't own an extra key, try the keys in a different vehicle to see if it works.

The condition of the battery will determine if you should change the programming of the key fob. If your key fob is unable to function after replacing the batteries, it likely indicates that the battery terminal contacts are damaged. Pressing the buttons on your key fob too often while out of range or disconnecting your car battery can also erase the programming of an electronic key fob.

If the key fob still not working after replacing the battery, you should have it reprogrammed by your car. It will depend on the specific car model, but you'll generally need to lock and unlock the doors manually, insert the key into the ignition, set it to accessory, then press the remote that is wireless. If this works then the interior and exterior lights should light up. You can then retest your key fob to ensure that it is successfully programmed with the vehicle. In rare cases the key fob could not function due to a problem with the door lock.