Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient of times.
If you notice that your key fob is not working, try a few quick fixes before heading to the dealership. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk up to your car, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will begin. It's a practical feature that has made the experience of driving a car more enjoyable and safer. But, like all devices, the keyless entry system may break from repeated use or because of other factors. If you've encountered issues with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Visit the dealership or call an emergency locksmith in your area.
The way a keyless entry system functions is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the vehicle's doors are opened and the onboard computer activated. Certain systems include another transmitter located in the trunk of the car that opens it when you waggle one foot underneath it.
Each key fob comes with an unique digital identification code, which is assigned by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with the car's specific system. This involves turning the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a certain sequence, and may also require pushing or pulling buttons or levers or levers or even removing the fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identity code as well as a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver on the car confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. The onboard computer will unlock the vehicle and start the engine when it is authenticated.
A skilled criminal could snoop and use the code sent between the keyfob and vehicle. This would require a special device to record the transmission and then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems use the rolling code method to stop this. This ensures that every new transmitter signal received by a vehicle has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for car remotes key fobs not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. The majority of fobs are powered by watches-style batteries, which can be bought at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob by searching the web or in your vehicle's manual.
After you've removed your battery, be careful not to damage any of the circuits or antennas in the case. If you make a mess of them the key fob could become unprogrammable and will not work. If you must move the key fobs, be cautious. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily be removed and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
Most key fobs come with one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's best to put your tool on the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, since the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic and may break or crack if apply too much pressure to it.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of the battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others require one. The wrong battery can cause your remote to become useless.
Once the new battery is installed, test your key fob again to see if it fixes your issue. If this doesn't work then you'll have to determine if the fob is suffering from a more complex issue that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, you could need to have it reset by a dealer or buy a replacement key fob completely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might appear small, but they are packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they occasionally fail. The good news is that if your car key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why that a car remote stop working is because dirt or crud have trapped between the button. To remedy this, take out the batteries with care and scrub each button with an abrasive that is dipped in rubbing alcohol. Make sure to dry them thoroughly prior to reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in any way, for example, being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If keys repair is the case using an alternative key fob to verify its function might reveal that it has been damaged and has to be replaced.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break during long-term use or exposure to weather conditions. To reactivate the sensor just press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If nothing else works, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by opening and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may have to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who offers automobile key repair to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car key fob works but does not lock or unlock the vehicle. If you have had the same key fob for a time, it may require reprogramming every few months to continue working with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than buying a new remote.