Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. However, they can stop working at inconvenient times.
If you notice that your key fob not working, try a few simple fixes before going to the dealership. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to your car, push the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will get started. It's a practical feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and more secure. But just like keys repair that the keyless entry system can fail due to repeated use or because of other reasons. If you're having problems with yours, you may either visit the dealer or call an locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals and then looking for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it triggers to unlock the car doors and activate the onboard computer. Some systems have another receiver mounted on the car's trunk that will open automatically when you move your foot on it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle multiple times in a particular sequence and may include pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or taking out fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identity code, along with an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk or open the trunk). The receiver on the car verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and starts the engine.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a device to record the transmission then transmit it again when the system isn't expecting it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ the rolling code method to stop this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most common reason for the car remote to not function. It's an easy and cheap fix when you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which can be bought at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search on 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 circuits or antennas inside the case after you have removed the battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your specific car, and messing with them will make it impossible to program (and probably not work). If you have to move the key fobs, be cautious. Certain key fobs could come with fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
The case of the majority of key fobs is equipped with a single screwdriver hole. To open it, use a pry tool. However, before you begin by putting the tool along the outside edge of the case, just as you would do when peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure, since the case of the fob is usually made of plastic and may crack or break if you apply too much pressure to it.
If you're ready to replace the battery, make sure to match its size and type to your key fob. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others only have one. Using the wrong battery can render your remote key fob useless.
Once the new battery is in place, try using your key fob for the second time to see if it fixes your problem. If not it, you'll have to determine whether your device has an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you might require it to be reprogrammed by a dealer, or you may need to purchase a new key fob altogether.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may appear small, but they are packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they occasionally fail. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly stops working, you'll be able to generally fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To get rid of this take care to remove both batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling the batteries.
It's also possible that the key fob was harmed somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by a sharp object. If this is the scenario, you can test the function of your key fob using another one.
The door lock sensor could have been unable to function in your vehicle. This sensor is a small metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or long usage. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails, you can test the functionality 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 find an emergency locksmith who can provide auto key repair to get your remote working again.
If your car's key fob is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you may try to re-programme your computer system. If you've used the same key fob a time, it may need to be reset every few months in order to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to purchase an entirely new remote.