Are you stranded with an electric car key that suddenly stopped working? Frustrating, isn’t it? Whether it’s a dead battery, a malfunctioning fob, or other underlying issues, encountering problems with your electric car key can be an inconvenience.
We outline the reasons why your electric car key is not working and how to address the problem.
Reasons why your electric car key is not working
Here’s why your electric car key is not working:
1. Dead or depleted key fob battery
A dead or depleted battery within the key fob is a common reason why an electric car key may stop working.
The key fob operates using a small battery that powers its internal circuitry and allows it to communicate wirelessly with the car. When this battery runs out of power, the key fob loses its ability to send signals to the vehicle, rendering it non-functional.
When the battery in the key fob is dead, the internal circuitry lacks the power to transmit the necessary signals to the car’s receiver.
This results in the inability to remotely lock or unlock doors, start the vehicle, or perform other functions controlled by the key fob.
Signs that the battery in your key fob might be dead or low include unresponsive buttons, reduced range for locking or unlocking the car, the key fob not working sometimes or only under certain conditions, and some key fobs have a low battery warning light that illuminates when the battery power is running low.
Solution:
Replacing the battery in the key fob is usually a straightforward solution to this issue. Most key fobs have a compartment that can be opened to access and replace the battery.
Reference the owner’s manual or seek guidance from a dealership or an auto parts store can to help you identify the appropriate battery type and the steps needed for replacement.
Regularly checking and replacing the key fob battery is also important to avoid unexpected issues with its functionality and ensure uninterrupted use of your electric car.
Related: Why is my electric car not charging at home? (Explained)
2. Faulty key fob
A faulty key fob can significantly impact the functionality of an electric car key. The key fob contains electronic components that facilitate communication between the key and the vehicle.
When these components malfunction or wear out, it can result in the key fob not working properly.
A faulty key fob can arise due to various reasons, including wear and tear over time, physical damage, exposure to moisture, or electronic component failure.
When the internal circuitry or components of the key fob are compromised, it hinders its ability to establish a proper connection with the car’s receiver, leading to a loss of functionality.
Signs that indicate a faulty key fob include non-responsive buttons, inconsistent functionality, physical damage, such as cracks, broken buttons, or water damage which affect its functionality, and no communication with your car.
Solution:
Fixing a faulty key fob often involves replacement or repair. Depending on the severity of the issue and the extent of the damage, you might need to replace the entire key fob or seek professional assistance to repair specific components.
In some cases, reprogramming the key fob to synchronize it with the vehicle’s system might also be necessary to restore functionality.
3. Car’s receiver/transmitter issues
Issues with the vehicle’s receiver or transmitter can significantly impact the functionality of an electric car key.
The receiver and transmitter systems in the vehicle are responsible for receiving signals from the key fob and transmitting appropriate responses to control various functions of the car.
Issues with you car’s receiver or transmitter system can stem from various factors:
- Faulty hardware: Malfunctions in the receiver or transmitter components within the vehicle, such as damaged circuits or antenna, can hinder proper signal reception and transmission.
- Electrical interference: Interference from other electronic devices or environmental factors can disrupt the signals between the key fob and the car, affecting the receiver’s ability to interpret these signals accurately.
- Programming errors: Incorrect programming settings within the vehicle’s system, such as improper synchronization or outdated software, can cause communication problems with the key fob.
Solution:
Seek professional assistance from authorized service centers to resolve issues with your car’s receiver/transmitter which involves diagnosing and addressing underlying hardware or software malfunctions.
Troubleshooting includes checking for any damaged components, updating software, reprogramming the system, or replacing faulty receiver/transmitter units.
Related: Electric car not charging fully at night (Explained)
4. Interference or signal blockage
Interference or signal blockage can be another reason why an electric car key might fail to work correctly.
This interference can disrupt the wireless communication between the key fob and the car’s receiver, preventing proper signal transmission and reception.
Interference can arise from various sources, including radio frequencies, electromagnetic fields from electronic devices, or physical obstructions that impede the signal transmission between the key fob and the car’s receiver.
Electronic devices like cell phones, power lines, or even household appliances can emit signals that interfere with the communication between the key fob and the car.
Also, environmental factors such as metal structures, dense buildings, or geographical features might block or weaken the signal.
Solution:
To resolve and address interference or signal blockage issues:
- Minimize electronic devices: Reduce the use of other electronic devices operating on similar frequencies when attempting to use the key fob.
- Check for obstructions: Ensure there are no physical barriers or obstructions between the key fob and the car’s receiver that might hinder signal transmission.
- Change locations: Move to a different location to see if the key fob functions properly without interference.
If the issue persists despite these measures, seek professional assistance for diagnosis and resolution of the problem.
5. Mechanical lock or ignition problems
Mechanical lock or ignition problems can also contribute to difficulties in using an electric car key.
These issues typically pertain to the physical components of the vehicle’s locking system or ignition mechanism and can impact the key’s functionality.
Mechanical lock or ignition problems can arise due to various reasons including wear and tear of the mechanical components, foreign object obstruction within the lock or ignition preventing key functionality, faulty components, and misalignment of the locking mechanism or ignition cylinder due to rough handling or attempted theft preventing smooth key operation.
Solution:
Resolving mechanical lock or ignition problems requires inspection and potential repairs or replacements of the affected components.
Depending on the severity of the issue, seek assistance from a certified locksmith or an automotive technician familiar with your car’s locking and ignition systems.
Sources
Why your car key is not working, Nashville Express Locksmith