Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient times.
Before you head to the dealer, consider some quick solutions in case your key fob isn't functioning. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your pocket or purse Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can walk up to your car, push a button on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and safe. But, like all devices, the keyless entry system could fail due to repeated use or because of other reasons. If you have problems with yours, you may either visit the dealer or phone an locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates 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 triggers to unlock the car doors and activate the onboard computer. Some systems have an additional receiver in the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you move your foot under it.
Each key fob is assigned a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to set the fob up to work with the specific car's system. This involves turning the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a certain sequence, and could require pulling buttons or levers or levers or even removing the fuse.
Once the key fob is programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code that instruct the car to (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver in the car verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be through an authentication and encryption process. The onboard computer will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it is authenticated.
There are fears that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a device to record the transmission then retransmit it in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to combat 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
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a car remote to not function. 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 bought at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or in your vehicle's owner manual should provide instructions on how you can disassemble your key fob and swap out the battery.
Once you've removed the battery, be sure not to disrupt any antennas or circuits within the case. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your specific car and any disruption to them will make it impossible to program (and likely to fail). If you must move them, do it very gently, as certain key fobs have fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob pieces throughout your living space.
The case of a majority of key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to use a pry tool. To begin by putting the tool around the outer edge of the case like you would do when peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, since the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic and can break or crack if apply too excessive force to it.
When you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match the size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries while others need one. The wrong battery can cause your remote to become useless.
If the problem persists, you can try again with your fob's key after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work then you'll have to determine if the fob is experiencing a more complex issue that requires a specialist diagnosis. You may have to have the key fob reprogrammed by a dealer or buy another one.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and they're filled with delicate electronics. So it's not too surprising that they're doomed to fail from time to time. The good news is that if your car key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why that a car remote stop working is because dirt or crud have trapped between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries carefully and scrub each button with an abrasive that is dipped in rubbing 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 perhaps scratched by a sharp object. If this is the scenario, you can test the function of your key fob using another one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. This is a tiny metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break following prolonged usage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. To reset the sensor simply press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you could always check the functioning of a spare key by trying to lock and unlock your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may need to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to get your remote working again.
If broken car key repair does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try reprogramming your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for a long time, it will have to be programmed every few months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.