Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, access trunks, and even start the engine. Remotes that work with these remotes may stop working at the most inconvenient of times.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick solutions in case your key fob isn't functioning. These steps could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your pockets or purse. Simply walk up to your car, push the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will get started. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and safe. But, like all devices that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system may fail due to frequent use or due to other factors. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact an emergency locksmith in your area.
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, it will trigger to unlock the car doors and also activate the computer onboard. Certain systems have another transmitter located in the trunk of the car which opens it when you waggle one foot underneath it.
Each key fob comes with a unique digital identification code that is issued by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a proprietary process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a certain sequence. It may also require pulling buttons or levers, or even removing the fuse.
Once the key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code that tell the car what to (lock or unlock the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption procedure. The onboard computer will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authorized.
A clever criminal could intercept and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require the use of a special device that records the transmission and then retransmits it when the system doesn't expect it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ the rolling code method to stop this. This ensures that each new signal from a transmitter received by a vehicle has a counter value that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for the car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a cheap and easy fix. Luckily, most fobs use standard watch-style batteries that are sold at big-box stores or hardware retailers for less than $10. key repairs can find instructions to disassemble the key fob on the internet or in your car's manual.
Be key fob repairs not to harm any circuits or antennas inside the case after you've removed your battery. If you mess with them the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't function. If you have to move the key fobs, be careful. Certain key fobs could have fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
Most key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case. However, it's a good idea wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, as if you would peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, since the fob case is often made of plastic and may break or crack if apply too much force to it.
Make sure you match the size and type of the battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others have only one, and the wrong battery can render your remote key fob ineffective.
Once the new battery is in place, test your key fob again to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If this fails, you will have to determine if the fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires professional diagnosis. If this is the case, you might require it to be changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a new key fob completely.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and are packed with delicate electronic components. It's not surprising that they'll occasionally fail. The good news is, when your car's key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the main reasons a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has accumulated between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries carefully and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been submerged in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that the key fob was harmed somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete or accidentally damaged by something sharp. If key repairs is the case using an alternative key fob to check its functionality may reveal that yours has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. It's a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended usage. To activate the sensor again just press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of a spare key by trying to open and close your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to find an emergency locksmith who can provide auto key repair to make your remote work again.
You can change the settings on your computer if your car key button is working, but it still cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. If you have had the same key fob for a time, it might require reprogramming every few months to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to buy an entirely new remote.