Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes offer wonderful convenience for drivers. They allow you to unlock doors, gain access to trunks and even start the engine. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient of times.
Before you visit the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes when your key fob stops working. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will unlock and the engine will begin. It's a useful feature that has made the world of car driving more comfortable and safer. But, like all devices that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system may break from repeated use or because of other factors. If you've experienced problems with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Visit the dealership or contact an emergency locksmith in your area.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals, and then looking for the response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it triggers to unlock the vehicle doors and activate the onboard computer. Some systems include another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car, which will open automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob has an individual digital identification code that is issued by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob with the car's specific system. This requires turning the ignition of the car several times in a specific sequence. It may also require pushing or pulling levers or buttons or even removing the fuse.
Once the key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code to instruct the car to (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be through an authentication and encryption procedure. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and then starts the engine.
A clever criminal could intercept and use the code sent between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then retransmit it later in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ a rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that each new signal from a transmitter received by a car has a counter value that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for the car remote to not work. It's an easy and cheap fix in the event that you have a spare key fob on hand to replace the old one with. Most fobs are powered with watch-style batteries that are available at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to take apart your key fob and swap out the battery.
Once you've removed the battery, be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits within the case. If you do this the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't function. 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.
The case of the majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you can use a tool to pry it open. But, to start, wedge the pry tool around the outer edge of the case, just as you would when peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure since the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and can crack or break with too excessive force.
When you're ready for replacing the battery, make sure to match the size and type to your key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries while others need one. The wrong battery could make your remote key fob useless.
If the issue continues it is possible to try again using your fob's key after installing the new battery. If it doesn't it, you'll have to determine whether your device has an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. It could be necessary to have the fob reprogrammed at the dealer or purchase a new one.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are tiny, and packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're destined to fail from time to time. key repair car is that in the event that your car's keypad fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons that a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To remove this obstruction remove the batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been that has been dipped in alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case, using an alternative key fob to verify its function might reveal that it has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. It's a tiny, metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break during long-term use or exposure to 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 can test the capabilities of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to contact a 24-hour locksmith who offers automobile key repair to make your remote work again.
If the car key button is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, you can try to reprogram your computer system. If you have had the same key fob for a while, it may require reprogramming every couple of months to continue working with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to purchase another remote.