Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, access trunks and even start the engine. However, they may cease to function at uninviable times.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes if your key fob stops functioning. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk to your car, push the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will begin. It's a simple function that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. But just like any device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system may be damaged by frequent use or due to other reasons. If you have problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or call a locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system operates is by releasing radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the vehicle's doors are not locked and the computer on board is activated. Certain systems have another receiver mounted on the car's trunk that will open automatically when you waggle your foot underneath it.
Each key fob comes with an individual digital identification code, which is given 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 pushing or pulling levers or buttons or even removing the fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code to tell the car what to (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be using an authentication and encryption process. The computer on board will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authenticated.
There are concerns that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require the use of a device that records the transmission and then transmits it again when the system doesn't anticipate it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ a rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most common reason for a car remote to not work. It's an easy and cheap fix when you have an extra key fob on hand to replace the old one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize regular watch-style batteries that are available in hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Once you've removed the battery, be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits within the case. If car key repairs make a mess of them, the key fob will become unprogrammable and may not work. If you have to move the key fobs, be careful. Some key fobs may have fasteners which can easily open and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
Most key fobs come with one hole that can be used with a screwdriver or other pry tool to open the case, however it's a good idea to put your tool on the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, since the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic and may break or crack if you apply too much pressure to it.
When you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match the size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries while others need one. The wrong battery could make your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is in place, try using your key fob once more to see if it solves your problem. If it doesn't work, you will be required to determine if your fob is suffering from something more complicated that requires a specialist diagnosis. You may have to have your key fob reprogrammed at an authorized dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might be tiny however they're packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they're doomed to fail from time to time. The good news is that when your car's key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons why a car key remote stops working is because dirt or grit has accumulated between the buttons. To remove this obstruction, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the situation, you can check the function of your key fob using another one.
The door lock sensor may 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 long-term 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 else fails, you can always test the operation of an extra key by trying to open and close your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it could be necessary to find an emergency locksmith who can provide car key repair to get your remote working again.
If the car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try reprogramming your computer system. If you have had the same key fob for a while, it may need to be reset every few months to continue working with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to purchase another remote.