Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient moments.
Before you go to the dealer, consider some quick solutions in case your key fob isn't working. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Rather than needing to fumble 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, press a button on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a practical feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and more secure. The keyless entry system, as any other device, may be damaged through repeated use or by other factors. If you've had issues with yours, there are two options: Go to the dealership or call a local locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system works is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the computer on board is activated. Certain systems have a second receiver on the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you move your foot underneath it.
Each key fob is assigned a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using an exclusive process known as "programming". This involves turning on the ignition of the car several times in a specific sequence. It may also require pushing or pulling buttons or levers, or removing the fuse.
Once the key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identity code as well as a function-code to instruct the car to (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be through an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer in the car will unlock the vehicle and start the engine when it is authorized.
A skilled criminal could snoop and use the code sent between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require the use of a special device that records the transmission, and then transmits it again in the event that the system doesn't want it. Most keyless entry systems utilize the rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that every new signal from a transmitter received by a car has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for the car remote to not work. If you have an extra key fob, it's a cheap and easy fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize regular watch-style batteries that are sold at big-box stores or hardware retailers for as little as $10. You can find directions to disassemble your key fob on the web or in your vehicle's manual.
After you've removed the battery, be sure not to disturb any circuits or antennas inside the case. They are likely holding the key fob's programming to your particular car and tampering with them can cause it to become unprogrammable (and likely to fail). If you must move them, do it with care because certain key fobs have fasteners that can easily pop open and scatter key fob parts throughout your living space.
The case of most key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to use a tool to pry it open. However, before you begin you must push the tool along the outside edge of the case as you would when peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure since the case of the key fob is typically composed of plastic and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you apply too much force.
Make sure you match the size and style of the battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs require two batteries, whereas others have just one. Using the wrong battery can quickly render your key fob remote useless.
If the issue continues, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not then you'll need to figure out if your fob has an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. repair key may need to have your key fob reprogrammed at a dealer or buy another one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are small, and they're filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're likely to 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.
The most common reason that a car remote stop functioning is due to dirt or crud has gotten trapped between the button. To remove this obstruction remove the batteries and clean each button by using a cotton swab, coated with alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
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 case, you can test the function of your key fob using another one.
The door lock sensor may have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not common for this sensor to break during prolonged usage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all else fails, you could always test the operation of an extra key by trying to open and close your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it may be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer car key repair to get your remote working again.
You can reprogram your computer if the car key button works, but it still cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. If you have had the same key fob for a while, it may need to be reset every couple of months to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to purchase another remote.