Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the engine. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.
Before you visit the dealer, consider some quick solutions in case your key fob isn't functioning. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk to your car, hit 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 secure. The keyless entry system, as any other device, may be damaged through repeated use or by other causes. If you have problems with yours, you may either visit the dealer or call a locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system functions is by releasing radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it triggers to unlock the vehicle doors and also activate the onboard computer. Some systems include a second receiver on the trunk of the car that opens automatically when you waggle your foot underneath it.
Each key fob is assigned a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a proprietary process called "programming". This usually involves turning the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence and may also involve pushing or pulling various levers and buttons or the removal of fuse.
Once the key fob is programmed into your car's keyless system it transmits a digital identity code and a function code to tell the car what to (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption procedure. If it is authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and starts the engine.
There are concerns that a clever criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it when the system isn't expecting it. To help combat this, most keyless entry systems rely on a method called rolling code that ensures that every new transmitter signal received by the car has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the car remote to not function. If car keys repairs near me have an extra key fob it's a cheap and easy fix. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which can be bought at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or your car's owner's manual should give you instructions on how you can disassemble your key fob and replace the battery.
After you've removed your battery, be sure not to disturb any circuits or antennas inside the case. They're likely to be holding the key fob's program to your particular car and tampering with them can cause it to become unprogrammable (and most likely not work). If you need to move key fobs, be careful. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily pop out and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
The case of the majority of key fobs is equipped with a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you can make use of a pry tool. To begin by putting the tool along the outside edge of the case like you would do when peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and it is prone to break or crack when you apply too excessive force.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of battery to your key fob when replacing it. Certain fobs require two batteries, whereas others have just one. The wrong battery can quickly make your remote key fob ineffective.
If the issue continues, you can try again with your fob's key after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work, you will need to determine whether your fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. You may need to have the fob reset at an authorized dealer or purchase a new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob could be tiny however they're packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they're destined to fail from time time. The good thing is, when your car's key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons that a car key remote stops working is that dirt or crud has accumulated between the buttons. To clear this up remove the batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped in alcohol rubbing. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using another one.
The door lock sensor might have been unable to function in your vehicle. It's a tiny, metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not common for this sensor to break after prolonged use or exposure to weather conditions. To reset the sensor, simply try pressing your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can test the functionality of an extra key by trying to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it may be necessary to find a 24-hour locksmith that offers auto key repair to make your remote work again.
If your car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. But keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a period of time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure it remains in sync with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to purchase a new remote.