Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes when your key fob stops working. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Simply walk up to your car, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will be opened and the engine will begin. It's a convenient feature that has made the world of car driving more comfortable and safer. The keyless entry system, like any other device, may be damaged through repeated use or other elements. If you have problems with yours, you can either go to the dealer or contact a locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system operates is by releasing radio signals and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the vehicle's doors are unlocked and the computer on board is activated. Certain systems include an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car that opens when you move one foot underneath it.
Each key fob is given a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with the car's specific system. This usually involves turning on the car's ignition several times in a certain sequence, and could also require pulling or pushing different buttons and levers, or removing fuse.
Once a key fob is 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, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it is authenticated.
There are fears that a skilled criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This will require a special device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it when the system doesn't anticipate it. To combat this, most keyless entry systems rely on a method called rolling code that guarantees that each new signal from the transmitter received by the car has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the car remote to not function. It's a simple and inexpensive fix in the event that you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize regular watch-style batteries that are available at big-box stores or hardware retailers for as little as $10. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob on the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Once key repair service 've removed the battery, be sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. They are likely holding 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 must move the key fobs, be cautious. Certain key fobs could have fasteners that can easily be removed and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
Most key fobs have one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case, but it's a good idea to put your tool on the outside of the case first, like you would peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, since the case of the fob is usually made of plastic and can crack or break if you apply too much force to it.
Make sure you match the size and type of battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others need one. The wrong battery can make your remote key fob useless.
If the problem persists, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If it doesn't it, you'll have to determine if your fob has a more complicated issue that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. You may need to have the key fob reset at the dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might be small, but they are packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they'll fail from time-to-time. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly stops working, you'll be able to generally fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons a car key remote stops working is that dirt or crud has lodged between the buttons. To get rid of this remove the batteries and scrub each button by using a cotton swab, dipped in ruby alcohol. Make sure to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in any way, for example, being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the scenario, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using another one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. It's a tiny, metal component that's attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not uncommon for this sensor to break after prolonged use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can test the capabilities of a spare key by opening and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to contact a 24-hour locksmith who offers automobile key repair to get your remote working again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car's key button works, but it still doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. If you've used the same key fob for a time, it may need to be reset every few months to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than buying a new remote.