Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes offer excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the engine. However, they may cease to function at uninviable times.
Before you visit the dealer, you can try a few quick solutions in case your key fob isn't working. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will be opened and the engine will begin. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and safe. But just like any device it's possible that the keyless entry system can be damaged by frequent use or due to other factors. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: Visit the dealership or call an emergency locksmith in your area.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals and then scouring for a response signal from a key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the car doors and also activate the onboard computer. Certain systems include another transmitter located in the trunk of the car which opens it when you waggle your foot beneath it.
Each key fob is given a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning on the ignition of the car repeatedly in a specific sequence and may also require pulling or pushing various buttons and levers or removing 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 instruct the car to (lock or unlock the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be through an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authorized.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This requires a device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it later when the system doesn't expect it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ rolling codes to stop this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a car has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a car remote to not work. It's a cheap and easy fix in the event that you have another key fob at your desk to replace the old one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize standard watch-style batteries that can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box retailers for $10 or less. A quick search of the internet or your car's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
Once you've removed the battery, be sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your particular car, and messing with them will make it unprogrammable (and likely to fail). If you have to move the key fobs, be careful. Certain key fobs could come with fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
Most key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's a good idea to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the fob is usually made of plastic and can break or crack if you apply too much force to it.
Make sure you match the size and style of the battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs come with two batteries, while others only need one. The wrong battery could cause your remote to become useless.
If the problem persists then you can try it again using your fob's key after installing the new battery. If it doesn't work you'll have to determine if the fob is experiencing an issue that is more complicated and requires a professional diagnosis. It could be necessary to have the fob reset at an authorized dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might be tiny but they're loaded with electronics. It's not surprising that they occasionally fail. The good thing is, in the event that your car's keypad isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most common reason the car remote stops functioning is due to dirt or crud has been stuck between the button. To clear this up, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab dipped in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to replacing the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If auto key repair near me is the situation, you can check the function of your key fob using a different one.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle isn't working anymore. The sensor is a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It is not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or prolonged usage. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all else fails, you can always check the functioning of the spare key by attempting to lock and unlock your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it may be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer auto key repair to make your remote work again.
If your car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for a period of time, it's going to need to be programmed each few months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.