Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes stop working at inconvenient times.
If you notice that your key fob is not working, try a few simple fixes before heading to the dealer. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your purse or pocket Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can walk up to your car, hit an icon on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. However, just like any other device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system can fail due to repeated use or because of other reasons. If you are having issues with yours, you can either visit the dealer or call a locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then searching for the response signal on the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it will trigger to open the doors of the vehicle and also activate the computer onboard. car keys repair include another transmitter located in the trunk of the car that opens when you move a foot under it.
Each key fob is assigned an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by a unique process called "programming". This usually involves turning the ignition of the car multiple times in a particular sequence, and could also require pulling or pushing various buttons and levers or removing fuses.
Once a key fob is programmed to the car's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code, along with a function code that tells the car what to do (lock in, unlock, or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and then starts the engine.
A clever criminal could intercept and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require the use of a special device that records the transmission, and then transmits it again when the system doesn't expect it to. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on rolling code that ensures that every new transmitter signal received by the vehicle has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
The most common cause of a car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob, it's a cheap and easy fix. The majority of fobs are powered by watches-style batteries, which can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case after you have removed your battery. If you mess with them the key fob could become unprogrammable and may not function. If you must 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.
The case of a majority of key fobs is equipped with a single screwdriver hole. To open it, use a tool to pry it open. But, to start you must push the tool around the outer edge of the case like you would when peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is usually composed of plastic and can crack or break with too the force.
Make sure you match the size and type of battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others only need one. A bad battery could render your remote keyfob useless.
After the new battery is installed, test your key fob once more to see if it fixes your problem. If it doesn't work, you will have to determine if the fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. You may have to have your key fob reprogrammed at the dealer or purchase a new one.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are pretty tiny, and packed with delicate electronic components. So it's not too surprising that they're doomed to fail from time time. The good thing is, in the event that your car's keypad fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons why a car key remote stops working is that dirt or crud has accumulated between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries with care and scrub each button with the help of a cotton swab which has been submerged in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in any way, for example, being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the situation, you can check your key fob's functionality by using a different one.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle has stopped working. The sensor is a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It's not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or extended usage. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can always check the functioning of the spare key by attempting to open and close your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, you might need to contact a 24-hour locksmith who provides repair of car keys to make your remote work again.
You can change the settings on your computer if the car key button works but does not lock or unlock the vehicle. But keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for a period of time, it will have to be programmed every couple of months to ensure that it is working properly with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to purchase an entirely new remote.