Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a great convenience to drivers. They allow you to unlock doors, gain access to trunks and even start the engine. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.
If you find that your key fob not working, you can try a few fixes before going to the dealer. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Rather than needing to fumble around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can simply stroll up to your car, press a button on your key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a simple function that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or by other factors. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: visit the dealer or contact the local locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system works is by sending radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are not locked and the onboard computer activated. Some systems include a second receiver on the trunk of the car, which opens automatically when you move your foot on it.
Each key fob is given an individual digital identification number by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence, and could include pulling or pushing various buttons and levers or removing fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identity code as well as a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock, or open the trunk). The car's receiver checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. The computer on board will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authenticated.
A clever criminal could intercept and use the code sent between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This requires a special device that records the transmission and then retransmits it in the event that the system doesn't want it to. The majority of keyless entry systems employ the rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that each new signal from a transmitter received by a vehicle has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for a car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a low-cost and simple fix. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your car's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and swap out the battery.
Be careful not to damage any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you've removed your battery. If you do this the key fob could become unprogrammable and may not work. If you have to move them, do it with care as some key fobs come with fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob components across your living room.
Most key fobs have one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case. However, it's a good idea to use your tool to wedge it around the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure since the case of the key fob is usually made of plastic, and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you apply too excessive force.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of battery to your key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others have only one. Using the wrong battery can make your remote key fob ineffective.
If the problem persists it is possible to try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If it doesn't then you'll need to figure out whether your device has a more complicated issue that requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you may need to have it reset by a dealer or buy a replacement key fob entirely.
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 will occasionally fail. The good thing is, if your car key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most common reason that a car remote stop working is because dirt or crud has been trapped between the buttons. To get rid of this remove the batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
remote key repair 's also possible that the key fob has been damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or unintentionally damaged by something sharp. If this is the case, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using a different one.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle isn't working anymore. It's a tiny metal component that's attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break after long use or exposure to weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails, you can test the capabilities of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors using 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.
You can reprogram your computer if the car key fob works, but it still does not lock or unlock the vehicle. If you have had the same key fob for a time, it may need to be reset every few months to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation, but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.