Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes provide a excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. Remotes that work with these remotes may stop working at the most inconvenient of moments.
Before car key repair service visit the dealer, try some quick fixes in case your key fob isn't functioning. These suggestions could 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 up to your car, hit a button on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. However, just like any other device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system can break from repeated use or because of other reasons. If you've had issues with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact the local locksmith.
Keyless entry systems work by sending radio signals and then scouring for a response signal from a key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the car's doors are not locked and the computer on board is activated. Some systems include another receiver mounted on the car's trunk that will open automatically when you move your foot underneath it.
Each key fob is equipped with an individual digital identification code that is issued by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to set the fob up with the car's specific system. This involves turning the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a certain sequence, and could require pulling buttons or levers, or even removing the fuse.
Once the key fob is programmed into your car's keyless system it transmits a digital identification code and a function code to instruct the car on what to do (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver on the car checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. The onboard computer will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authorized.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize the rolling code method to stop this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter value that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of car remotes key fobs not working is an inoperative battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner manual should provide instructions on how to take apart the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
After you've removed the battery, be careful not to disrupt any antennas or circuits within the case. They are likely holding the key fob's programming to your car's specific model and tampering with them will render it unprogrammable (and probably not work). If you have to move them, do so very gently because some key fobs come with fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob components throughout your living space.
Most key fobs have a single hole for the screwdriver or another pry tool to open the case, however it's a good idea to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is usually composed of plastic and can crack or break when you apply too the force.
When you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match its size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries, while others only need one. A bad battery could make your remote key fob useless.
If the problem persists, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not it, you'll have to determine whether your key fob is suffering from an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you could need to have it changed by a dealer or purchase a replacement key fob completely.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and they're packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're doomed to fail from time time. If your car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can generally fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons why a car key remote stops working is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To remedy this, take out the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped into rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling the 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 case using an alternative key fob to verify its function could reveal that the one you have been damaged and requires to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle has stopped working. This sensor is a small metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or long use. To activate the sensor again simply press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can always check the functioning of the spare key by attempting to open and close your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may have to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who offers automobile key repair to get your remote working again.
If your car's key fob is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try to re-programme your computer system. If you've had the same key fob for a while, it may require reprogramming every couple of months to continue working with your vehicle. This isn't the best option but it's better than having to replace your remote completely.