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 car. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient of times.
Before you visit the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes in case your key fob isn't working. These tips could 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, push an icon on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a convenient feature that has made the experience of car driving more comfortable and safer. But just like any device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system may fail due to repeated use or because of other factors. If you have problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or phone an locksmith.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals and then searching for the response signal from a key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it's triggered to unlock the car doors and activate the onboard computer. Certain systems have an additional receiver in the trunk of the car that opens it automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob comes with an individual digital identity code that's assigned by the manufacturer. A unique process of technology known as "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with the car's specific system. This typically involves turning the car's ignition several times in a certain sequence, and could include pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or removing fuses.
Once a key fob has been programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identity code, along with an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and starts the engine.
A skilled criminal could snoop and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a device to record the transmission and then retransmit it in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to prevent 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
The most frequent reason for a car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. It's an easy and cheap fix when you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize standard watch-style batteries that are sold at hardware stores or big-box retailers for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble the key fob on the internet or in your car's manual.
After you've removed your battery, make sure not to disrupt any antennas or circuits within the case. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your car's specific model and any disruption to them will render it unprogrammable (and most likely not work). If you have to move them, do so very gently as some key fobs have fasteners that are able to pop open and scatter key fob parts all over your living room.
remote key fob repair near me of key fobs have one hole that allows the screwdriver or another pry tool to open the case, but it's best to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an apple or orange. Be keys repair not to apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and could crack or break if you apply too much force to it.
If 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. The wrong battery can cause your remote to become useless.
If the issue continues then you can try it again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work then you'll be required to determine if your fob is experiencing an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. You may need to have your key fob reprogrammed at a dealer or buy an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may be small, but they are packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they'll occasionally fail. The good thing is, when your car's key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most common reason the car remote stops working is due to dirt or crud has been trapped between the buttons. To get rid of this, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button by using a cotton swab, that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to installing the batteries.
It's also possible that the key fob has been damaged by accident, such as being dropped on concrete, or perhaps scratched by something sharp. If that's the case, using an alternative key fob to check its functionality might reveal that it has been damaged and requires to be replaced.
The door lock sensor may have been unable to function in your vehicle. It's a tiny, metal component that's 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 check the functioning of a spare key by trying to lock and unlock your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may have to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to get your remote working again.
If your car's key fob is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you may try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for a long time, it's going to need to be programmed each few months to ensure that it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to buy an entirely new remote.