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 can stop working at the most inconvenient of moments.
If you notice that your key fob is no longer working, try a few fixes before heading to the dealership. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your purse or pocket Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can walk to your car, hit a button on the key fob, then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and safe. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, may be damaged by repeated use or by other elements. If you've experienced problems with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Visit the dealership or call a local locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system operates is by sending out radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it's triggered to unlock the car doors and activate the computer onboard. Certain systems have a second transmitter on the trunk of the car that opens it when you waggle a foot under it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a proprietary process called "programming". This involves turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a predetermined sequence. It may also require pulling buttons or levers, or removing the fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system, it transmits the digital identity code along with a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. If it is authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and starts the engine.
A skilled criminal could snoop and use the code sent between the keyfob and the vehicle. This requires a device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it when the system doesn't anticipate it to. To help combat this, most keyless entry systems use rolling code, which ensures that each new transmitter signal received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a car remote to not function. If you have an extra key fob it's a low-cost and simple fix. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have regular watch-style batteries that are sold at hardware stores or big-box retailers for less than $10. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob by searching the web or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed the battery. If you make a mess of them, the key fob will become unprogrammable and will not function. If you need to move key fobs, be careful. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
Most key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case, but it's a good idea to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, like you were peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, since the case of the fob is usually constructed of plastic and could crack or break if you apply too much force to it.
When you're ready for replacing the battery, make sure to match its size and style to your key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries, while others only require one. The wrong battery can cause your remote to become useless.
Once the new battery is in place, try using your key fob for the second time to see if the battery has fixed your problem. If it doesn't, you'll need to determine if your fob has an issue that is more complex and requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you may require it to be reprogrammed by a dealer, or buy a replacement key fob altogether.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob could be small, but they are packed with electronic components. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're doomed to fail from time to time. The good news is, if your car key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons a car key remote fails to function is due to dirt or dust that has become lodged between the buttons. To clear this up take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab coated with ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before installing the batteries.
It's possible that the key fob was damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or accidentally damaged by something sharp. If this is the scenario, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using another one.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. car key fob repairs is not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or extended usage. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails, you could always check the functioning of an extra key by trying to open and close your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it may be necessary to find a 24-hour locksmith that offers car key repair to get your remote operating again.
You can change the settings on your computer if the car key button works however it doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. Be aware that if you've used the same key fob for a period of time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure it is working properly with your vehicle. This isn't the best option however it's much better than having to replace the remote completely.