Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes provide a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient of times.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick solutions when your key fob stops functioning. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk to your car, hit a button on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's a practical feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and more secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, may be damaged through repeated use or other causes. If you've had issues with yours, there are two options: Visit the dealer or contact the local locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system functions is by sending out radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the vehicle doors and activate the computer onboard. Some systems include an additional receiver in the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob is assigned a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to configure the fob with the car's specific system. This typically involves turning the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a specific sequence. It could also involve pushing or pulling various buttons and levers or the removal of fuses.
Once a key fob is programmed to your vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits the digital identity code as well as an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. The computer on board will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it's authenticated.
There are concerns that a clever criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it later in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ rolling codes to stop this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a car has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of the car remote key fob not working is an inoperative battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a low-cost and simple fix. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have standard watch-style batteries that can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware retailers for $10 or less. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob on the internet or in your car's manual.
After you've removed the battery, be sure not to damage any antennas or circuits within the case. If you do this, the key fob will become unprogrammable and may not work. If you must move them, do so with care because certain key fobs have fasteners that are able to pop open and scatter key fob components all over your living room.
Most key fobs come with one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's a good idea to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an orange or apple. Do not apply too much pressure, as the fob case is often constructed of plastic and could break or crack if apply too much pressure to it.
Be sure to match the size and style of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. car key fob repair require two batteries, whereas others only have one. The wrong battery can make your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery has been put installed, test your key fob again to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If this fails then you'll have to determine if the fob is experiencing a more complex issue that requires a specialist diagnosis. If this is the case, you might need to have it reset by a dealer or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are small, and they're filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they occasionally fail. If the car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can typically fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons why a car key remote stops working is due to dirt or dust that has accumulated between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries carefully and clean each button using the help of a cotton swab which is dipped in the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case, using another key fob to test its functionality may reveal that yours has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
The door lock sensor could have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or extended use. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can always check the functioning of the spare key by attempting to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to locate an emergency locksmith who can provide auto key repair to get your remote working again.
You can change the settings on your computer if the car key button is working, but it still cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. But keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for some time, it's likely to need to be programmed every few months to ensure it is working properly with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace your remote entirely.