Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They allow you to unlock doors, gain access to trunks, and even start the engine. But, these remotes sometimes cease to function at uninviable times.
If you discover that your key fob not working, try a few quick fixes before going to the dealership. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket instead, walk up to your car, hit an icon on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and secure. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, may be damaged by repeated use or by other causes. If you are having issues with yours, you may either visit the dealer or call an locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system functions is by sending radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the car doors and also activate the computer onboard. Some systems have an additional receiver in the car's trunk that will open automatically when you waggle your foot on it.
Each key fob has an unique digital identification code that is given by the manufacturer. remote key repair is programmed using an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle several times in a certain sequence. It could also involve pushing or pulling various buttons and levers or the removal of fuses.
Once a key fob has been programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identification 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. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine when it is authorized.
There are fears 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 then retransmit it in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to prevent this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a car has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for a car remote to not function. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. Most fobs are powered with watch-style batteries that can be bought at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or your car's owner's manual will provide directions on how you can disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
Be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case after you've removed your battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your particular car, and messing with them will render it impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you have to move them, do it very gently as certain key fobs have fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob pieces across your living room.
The majority of key fobs have one hole that can be used with an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case. However, it's best to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, since the fob case is often constructed of plastic and could break or crack if you apply too much force to it.
Be sure to match the size and type of the battery to your key fob when you replace it. Certain fobs require two batteries, whereas others only have one. The wrong battery can render your key fob remote useless.
If the problem persists it is possible to try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not then you'll need to figure out whether your key fob is suffering from an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you might need to have it changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a new key fob altogether.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and they're packed with delicate electronic components. So it's not too surprising that they're destined to fail from time to time. The good thing is, if your car key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why the car remote stops functioning is due to dirt or crud have stuck between the button. To clear this up take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab coated with alcohol rubbing. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the scenario, you can test the function of your key fob using another one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. It's a tiny, metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not common for this sensor to break after prolonged use or exposure to weather conditions. Press car key fob repairs without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If nothing else works, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by opening and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to locate an emergency locksmith who can provide automobile key repair in order to make your remote work again.
If the car key button is working but still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, you can try to reprogram your computer system. If you have had the same key fob for a time, it might need to be reset every few months in order to continue working with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than buying another remote.