Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient times.
If you discover that your key fob no longer working, try a few fixes before going to the dealer. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can simply walk up to your car, hit a button on the key fob, then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a useful feature that has made the world of driving a car more enjoyable and safer. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, could be damaged through repeated use or by other elements. If you have problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or phone a locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system operates is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If car key remote repair , the vehicle's doors are not locked and the onboard computer activated. Certain systems have another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you move your foot underneath it.
Each key fob is assigned an individual digital identification number by the manufacturer. A unique process of technology known as "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with a specific car's system. This usually involves turning the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence and may also require pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or the removal of fuse.
Once the key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identity code and a function code that instruct the car to (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and begins the engine.
There are fears that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require the use of an instrument that records the transmission and then retransmits it later in the event that the system doesn't want it to. The majority of keyless entry systems employ rolling codes to combat this. This ensures that each new transmitter signal received by a vehicle has a counter value that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the car remote to not function. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. Luckily, most fobs use regular watch-style batteries that are available in hardware stores or big-box retailers for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or in your vehicle's owner manual should provide instructions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and swap out the battery.
Once you've removed the battery, make sure not to disturb any of the circuits or antennas in the case. They are likely holding the key fob's program to your particular car and any disruption to them will make it unprogrammable (and likely to fail). If you have to move the key fobs, take care. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily be removed and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
Most key fobs come with one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case, however it's best to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, as if you would peeling an orange or apple. Do not apply too much pressure, since the case of the fob is usually constructed of plastic and could crack or break if you apply too much force to it.
Make sure you match the size and type of battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only need one. A bad battery could make your remote key fob useless.
If the problem persists it is possible to try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not, you'll need to determine whether your key fob is suffering from an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you might need to have it changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a new key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might be tiny, but they are packed with electronic components. It's not surprising that they'll malfunction from time to time. If the car key button suddenly stops working, you'll be able to usually fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why the car remote stops working is due to dirt or crud has been lodged between the button. To fix this, remove the batteries in a careful manner and clean each button using the help of a cotton swab which has been dipped into the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, like 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. This sensor is a small metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It is not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended usage. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of a spare key by trying to open and close your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may need to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to get your remote working again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car's key button works but doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. If you have had the same key fob a time, it may require reprogramming every couple of months to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to purchase a new remote.