Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes provide a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient moments.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes when your key fob stops 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, hit an icon on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a convenient feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and safer. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, could be damaged through repeated use or other elements. If you're having problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or call an locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then scouring for the response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the vehicle's doors are unlocked and the onboard computer activated. 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 given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with the car's specific system. This usually involves turning on the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling different buttons and levers, or removing fuses.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identity code along with an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk, or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and begins the engine.
remote key repair savvy criminal could steal and use the code sent between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require the use of a device that records the transmission and then transmits it again when the system doesn't anticipate it. To help combat this issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use rolling code, which ensures that each new signal from the transmitter received by the car has a different counter than 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 cheap and easy fix. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be bought at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to take apart the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
Once you've removed the battery, be careful not to damage any of the circuits or antennas in the case. They're likely to be holding the key fob's programming to your specific car and any disruption to them will make it unprogrammable (and likely to fail). If you have to move them, do so slowly as some key fobs come with fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob pieces across your living room.
The case of the majority of key fobs is equipped with a single screwdriver hole. To open it, make use of a pry tool. However, before you begin by putting the tool along the outside edge of the case as you would peel an orange or apple. Do not 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 exert too excessive force.
When you're ready for replacing the battery, be sure to match the size and type to your key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only need one. The wrong battery could cause your remote to become useless.
After the new battery is installed, test your key fob again to see if it fixes your problem. If this fails, you will have to determine if the fob is experiencing a more complex issue that requires a professional diagnosis. It could be necessary to have the key fob reprogrammed at an authorized dealer or purchase another one.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are small, and they're packed with delicate electronic components. It's not a surprise that they will occasionally fail. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly stops working, you'll be able to usually fix it yourself.
The most common reason the car remote stops functioning is due to dirt or crud have stuck between the buttons. To get rid of this take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. Make sure you dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the situation, you can check the function of your key fob using another one.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle has stopped working. It's 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 after long-term usage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If nothing else works, you can test the capabilities of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it may be necessary to find a 24-hour locksmith that offers car key repair to get your remote working again.
You can change the settings on your computer if your car key button works however it does not lock or unlock the vehicle. 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 that it is working properly with your vehicle. This isn't the best option however it's much better than having to replace your remote completely.