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. Remotes that work with these remotes may stop working at the most inconvenient of instances.
If you discover that your key fob is not working, you can try a few fixes before going to the dealership. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your purse or pocket instead, stroll up to your car, press an icon on the key fob, then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. But, like all devices, the keyless entry system could break from frequent use or due to other factors. If you've experienced problems with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact a local locksmith.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals, and then searching for the response signal on a key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the vehicle's doors are opened and the onboard computer activated. Certain systems have a second receiver on the trunk of the car, which opens it automatically when you move your foot underneath it.
Each key fob is equipped with an unique digital identification code that is issued by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a specific sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling various levers and buttons or the removal of fuses.
Once a key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identity code and a function code to tell the car what to (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver on the car checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and starts the engine.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This will require an instrument that records the transmission, and then transmits it again in the event that the system doesn't want it to. Most keyless entry systems utilize a rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that each new transmitter signal received by a car has a counter value that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most common cause of the car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. repair car keys on the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble your key fob and replace the battery.
Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you have removed your battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your car's specific model and tampering with them will make it impossible to program (and probably not work). If you must move the key fobs, be careful. Certain key fobs could come with fasteners that are able to pop out and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
The case of the majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you can use a tool to pry it open. To begin, wedge the pry tool along the outside edge of the case like you would when peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, as the fob case is often made of plastic and may crack or break if you apply too excessive pressure to it.
Be sure to match the size and type of the battery to your key fob when replacing it. Certain fobs require two batteries, whereas others only have one, and the wrong battery can make your remote key fob ineffective.
If the problem persists it is possible to try again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If not, you'll need to determine whether your device has an issue that's more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. You may have to have your key fob reprogrammed by an authorized dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are small, and they're packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're destined to fail from time time. The good news is, in the event that your car's keypad stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons that a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has accumulated between the buttons. To clear this up, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been dipped in alcohol rubbing. Be sure to dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using an alternative key fob to test its functionality may reveal that yours has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle isn't working anymore. It's a tiny, metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not common for this sensor to break during prolonged use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If key repair service fail, you can always check the functioning of a spare key by trying to lock and unlock your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it could be necessary to find an 24 hour locksmith that can offer auto key repair to get your remote working again.
If your car's key fob is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, try reprogramming your computer system. If you've used the same key fob a time, it might need to be reset every few months in order to continue working with your vehicle. This isn't the best option however it's much better than having to replace your remote entirely.