Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They allow you to unlock doors, gain access to trunks and even start the engine. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient of instances.
Before you head to the dealer, try some quick solutions in case your key fob isn't functioning. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your pockets or purse. Simply walk up to your car, push the button on the keyfob, and the doors will be opened and the engine will get started. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and safe. The keyless entry system, like any other device, can be damaged through repeated use or by other elements. If you've had issues with yours, you have two options: Visit the dealer or contact a local locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals and then looking for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the car's doors are not locked and the computer on board is activated. Certain systems include an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car which opens it when you waggle one foot underneath it.
Each key fob comes with an individual digital identification code, which is issued by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using an exclusive process known as "programming". This involves turning the ignition of the car several times in a specific sequence, and may also require pulling buttons or levers or levers or removing fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your car's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identity code, along with an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock in, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and starts the engine.
There are concerns that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a device to record the transmission and then retransmit it in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize the rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for car remotes key fobs not working is an inoperative battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize traditional watch-style batteries which are sold at hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. A quick search on the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to take apart your key fob and replace the battery.
Once you've removed the battery, be sure not to damage any of the circuits or antennas in the case. If you do this the key fob will become unprogrammable and will not work. If you must move them, do so very gently as some key fobs come with fasteners that are able to pop open and scatter key fob parts all over your living room.
The case of a majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you can use a tool to pry it open. To begin you must push the tool around the outer edge of the case like you would peel an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, since the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic and can crack or break if you apply too excessive force to it.
Be sure to ensure that the size and type of the battery to your key fob when replacing it. Certain fobs require two batteries, while others only have one. Using the incorrect battery could render your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is in place, test your key fob again to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If it doesn't work then you'll have to determine if the fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires professional diagnosis. If this is the case, you may need to have it reset by a dealer or purchase a new key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may be small, but they are packed with electronic components. So it's not too surprising that they're destined to fail from time to time. If the car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can usually fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why a car remote key stops working is because dirt or crud has gotten stuck between the buttons. To get rid of this take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab dipped in ruby alcohol. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before replacing the batteries.
It's also possible that the key fob was damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or unintentionally damaged by something sharp. If car key repair is the case, using a different key fob to check its functionality might reveal that it has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your vehicle. This is a tiny metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not uncommon for this sensor to break after long usage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. To reactivate the sensor just press your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can always test the function of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it could be necessary to find an 24 hour locksmith that can offer automobile key repair in order to get your remote working again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car key button is working but doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. If you have had the same key fob a time, it may need to be reset every couple of months to continue working with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to buy a new remote.