Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They allow you to unlock doors, gain access to trunks and even start the engine. However, they may stop working at odd times.
Before you go to the dealer, try some quick fixes when your key fob stops functioning. These suggestions 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, press an icon on the key fob, then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a useful feature that has made the experience of car driving more comfortable and more secure. The keyless entry system, as any other device, may be damaged by repeated use or by other factors. If you are having issues with your system, you can either go to the dealer or contact an locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals, and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it triggers to unlock the car doors and activate the computer onboard. Certain systems include an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car which opens when you move a foot under it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a proprietary process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a certain sequence, and could require pulling buttons or levers, or removing fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identity 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 who it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption procedure. If it is authorized, the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and then starts the engine.
A savvy criminal could steal and use the code sent between the keyfob and vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it later when the system isn't expecting it. To help combat this, most keyless entry systems rely on the rolling code method that ensures that every new transmitter signal received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of a car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. It's an easy and cheap fix if you have another key fob at in your possession to replace the previous one with. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that are available at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search of 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.
Be careful not to damage any circuits or antennas inside the case once you've removed the battery. 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 probably not work). If you must move them, do it very gently as certain key fobs have fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob components throughout your living space.
The case of most key fobs is equipped with a single screwdriver hole. To open it, make use of a pry tool. To begin, wedge the pry tool along the outside edge of the case, just as you would when peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, since the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and could break or crack if apply too much pressure to it.
When you're ready for replacing the battery, make sure to match its size and type to your key fob. Some key fobs require two batteries, whereas others only have one. The wrong battery can render your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is in place, try using your key fob once more to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If it doesn't then you'll need to figure out if your fob has an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. You may have to have the fob reset at the dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are pretty tiny, and packed with delicate electronic components. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're destined to fail from time time. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly ceases to function, you can generally fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons that a car key remote doesn't work is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To remedy car keys repairs , take out the batteries in a careful manner and clean each button using the help of a cotton swab which is dipped in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before replacing the batteries.
It's possible that the key fob has been damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by something sharp. If this is the scenario, you can test your key fob's functionality by using another one.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny, metal component that's attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not uncommon for this sensor to break after long use or exposure to weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails, you can always test the function of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who offers automobile key repair to get your remote working again.
If your car key button is working but still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, you may try reprogramming your computer system. But keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for some time, it will have to be programmed each few months to ensure it remains in sync with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to buy another remote.