Troubleshooting Mitsubishi Mirage Key Fob Issues

When it comes to the convenience of a remote keyless entry system, the Mitsubishi Mirage offers a seamless experience—locking and unlocking your car with just the press of a button. However, when your key fob suddenly stops working, it can turn into a significant inconvenience. This guide is designed to help you identify common causes and solutions for Mitsubishi Mirage key fob problems, so you can get back to driving without unnecessary stress.

Common Causes of Mitsubishi Mirage Key Fob Not Working

1. Dead Battery in the Key Fob

A dead battery is the most common reason a Mitsubishi Mirage key fob might stop functioning. If the key fob was working previously but its range gradually diminished, it’s likely that the battery is running out of power.

How to Fix It

• Replace the Battery: Ensure you replace the old battery with a new one of the same voltage, size, and specification. Pay attention to the battery’s orientation when inserting it to avoid any damage.
• Check the Expiry Date: When purchasing a new battery, ensure it hasn’t been sitting on the shelf for too long. Batteries with a near-expiry date may not last long even after replacement.

Tip: If your Mirage has a push-button start feature, a dead key fob battery might show a "key not detected" alert. If this happens, try holding the key fob near the start button and press it to start the engine.

2. Poor Battery Connection

Sometimes the key fob’s battery may not be making good contact due to loose or corroded battery terminals.

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How to Fix It

• Open the key fob and check the battery’s retaining clips. If the clips aren’t holding the battery in place, they may need to be adjusted for a firmer connection.
• Clean the battery contacts to ensure there is no corrosion or dirt, which might affect the fob’s performance.

3. Water Damage

Water exposure is a major issue for key fobs, especially if it’s submerged or left in the washing machine.

How to Fix It

• If your key fob has been exposed to water, immediately remove the battery and dry the components with a paper towel. If it’s saltwater or soapy water, clean the internal chip with isopropyl alcohol or an electronic cleaner.
• After cleaning, allow the fob to dry fully before reassembling it. If the fob doesn’t work after drying, you may need a replacement.

4. Dead 12V Battery

The keyless entry system in your Mirage relies on the health of your vehicle’s 12V battery. If the 12V battery is dead, it could cause issues with unlocking the doors and starting the engine.

How to Fix It

• Check the 12V battery for any signs of wear or corrosion on the terminals. If the battery is dead, replace it.
• A dead 12V battery may also affect other electrical components in the car, such as the headlights and infotainment system.

5. Signal Interference

External factors can interfere with your key fob’s signal, especially if you are near radio towers or other electronic devices emitting signals on the same frequency.

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How to Fix It

• Try using the key fob in different locations to see if it works. If the issue is caused by interference, moving away from the source of the signal may resolve the problem.
• Keep your key fob away from devices that emit strong electromagnetic signals, such as satellite dishes or poorly installed radio transmitters.

6. Reprogramming Required

In some rare cases, your key fob might stop working due to pairing issues between the fob and your Mirage.

How to Fix It

• Reprogramming your key fob might be necessary, especially if the key has become unpaired from your car. You can do this yourself using an OBDII scanner or follow the steps provided in your car’s owner’s manual.
• If you can’t reprogram the key yourself, visit an authorized Mitsubishi dealer for professional assistance.

7. Defective Key Fob

A key fob can occasionally malfunction due to internal damage. If your key fob has been dropped or is experiencing random failures, it might be faulty.

How to Fix It

• If your key fob is defective and all other solutions (like battery replacement and reprogramming) haven’t worked, it’s time to replace the key fob.

8. Faulty Receiver Module

The receiver module in your Mitsubishi Mirage is responsible for receiving signals from your key fob. If the receiver fails, neither of your key fobs may work.

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How to Fix It

• Diagnostic tools like an OBDII scanner can help you determine if the receiver module is functioning correctly. If the module is faulty, it may need to be replaced.

9. Electronic Immobilizer Fault

If the engine won’t start and you see a "key not detected" message or a key symbol warning light, there may be an issue with the electronic immobilizer system.

How to Fix It

• If the immobilizer system is malfunctioning, it may prevent the engine from starting even if the key fob is functioning properly. In this case, you might need to have the system reset at a Mitsubishi dealership.

Additional Tips for Preventing Key Fob Issues

• Keep Your Key Fob Clean: Regularly clean the buttons and ensure the fob isn’t exposed to harsh elements like dust, dirt, or water.
• Store Your Key Fob Properly: Always store your key fob in a safe and dry location to prevent accidental damage or water exposure.
• Use a Spare Key Fob: If you have a spare key fob, keep it in a secure location to ensure you’re not stranded if the primary fob stops working.

Conclusion

When your Mitsubishi Mirage key fob stops working, the issue could be anything from a simple battery replacement to a more complex problem with the receiver module or immobilizer system. By troubleshooting step-by-step, you can identify the root cause of the problem and apply the appropriate fix. Always start with the basics—check the battery and ensure there is no damage to the fob itself. If all else fails, consult a professional to get your key fob working again.

FAQs

1. How often should I replace the battery in my Mitsubishi Mirage key fob?
   The key fob battery typically lasts between two and four years, depending on usage.
2. Can I still start my car if the key fob battery is dead?
   Yes, most Mitsubishi Mirage vehicles with push-button start can be started by placing the key fob near the start button.
3. What should I do if my key fob gets wet?
   Immediately remove the battery, dry the key fob, and clean the internal components if exposed to soapy or saltwater.
4. How can I reprogram my Mitsubishi Mirage key fob?
   You can reprogram your key fob using an OBDII scanner or follow the instructions in the vehicle's owner’s manual.
5. What if none of my key fobs work?
   If both key fobs fail, the issue may be with the receiver module or another internal vehicle system, requiring professional diagnostics.

If you want to know other articles similar to Troubleshooting Mitsubishi Mirage Key Fob Issues you can visit the category Common Problems.