Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes provide a excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes cease to function at uninviable times.
If you notice that your key fob is not working, you can try a few quick fixes before heading to the dealership. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't need to search for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk up to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will be opened and the engine will begin. It's a practical feature that has made the world of driving a car more enjoyable and more secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, may be damaged by repeated use or other factors. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact an emergency locksmith in your area.
The way a keyless entry system functions is by releasing radio signals and then looking for a response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the car's doors are opened and the onboard computer activated. Some systems have another receiver mounted on the car's trunk that opens it automatically when you move your foot on it.
Each key fob has an unique digital identification code that is assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using a proprietary process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a predetermined sequence. It may also require pulling levers or buttons or removing the fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to the vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identity code along with a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock, or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption process. The onboard computer will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it's authorized.
A skilled criminal could snoop and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a device to record the transmission then transmit it again when the system isn't expecting it. To prevent this from happening issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use rolling code that guarantees that each new signal from the transmitter received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for the car remote to not function. It's a simple and inexpensive fix when you have a spare key fob on your desk to replace the old one with. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which can be bought at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob on the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case once you've removed the battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's program to your particular car and tampering with them will make it impossible to program (and likely to fail). If you need to move key fobs, be careful. Certain key fobs might have fasteners which can easily pop out and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
The case of the majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to use a tool to pry it open. But, to start, wedge the pry tool around the outer edge of the case, just as you would do when peeling an orange or apple. Do not apply too much pressure, since the fob case is often made of plastic and can crack or break if you apply too excessive pressure to it.
Be understanding to match the size and style of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others have just one. The wrong battery can quickly render your remote key fob ineffective.
If the issue continues then you can try it again with your fob's key after installing the new battery. If it doesn't it, you'll have to determine if your fob has an issue that's more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. You may need to have the key fob reprogrammed at an authorized dealer or purchase a new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are small, and are filled with delicate electronics. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're doomed to fail from time to time. If the car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can usually fix it yourself.
The most common reason a car remote key stops working is because dirt or crud has been lodged between the buttons. To get rid of this, carefully remove both the batteries and scrub each button by using a cotton swab, that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob was damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case, using a different key fob to check its functionality may reveal that yours has been damaged and requires to be replaced.
The door lock sensor could have stopped working in your vehicle. This is a tiny metal component that's 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 your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of an extra key by trying to unlock and lock your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to locate an emergency locksmith who can provide car key repair to get your remote operating again.
If the car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a long time, it's going to need to be programmed every few months to ensure that it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to purchase an entirely new remote.