Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes offer great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. However, they may stop working at odd times.
Before you head to the dealer, consider some quick fixes if your key fob stops functioning. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can simply stroll up to your car, hit a button on your key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a practical feature that has made the world of driving a car more enjoyable and safer. However, just like any other device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system can fail due to repeated use or due to other factors. If you've had issues with your keyless entry system, there are two options: visit the dealership or call a local locksmith.
car keys repair is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it's triggered to unlock the car doors and activate the onboard computer. Certain systems have a second receiver on the car's trunk that opens it automatically when you waggle your foot under it.
Each key fob comes with an individual digital identification code, which is issued by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob with a specific car's system. This typically involves turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a specific sequence and may also require pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or removing fuse.
Once the key fob is programmed into your car's keyless system it transmits a digital identification code as well as a function-code to tell the car what to (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is the person it claims to be using an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer on board will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authenticated.
There are concerns that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This requires 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 rolling codes to stop this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a car has a counter value that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most common reason for a car remote to not function. If you have an extra key fob, it's a cheap and easy fix. The majority of fobs are powered by watches-style batteries, which can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case once you've removed your battery. If you make a mess of them the key fob could become unprogrammable and will not work. If these details have to move them, do it with care, as certain key fobs have fasteners that can easily pop open and scatter key fob components across your living room.
The majority of key fobs have one hole that can be used with an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's a good idea wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, since the fob case is often made of plastic and can break or crack if you apply too much force to it.
When you're ready for replacing the battery, be sure to match the size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only need one. The wrong battery can make your remote key fob useless.
If the issue continues it is possible to try again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work, you will be required to determine if your fob is suffering from a more complex issue that requires professional diagnosis. If this is the case, you could need to have it changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob altogether.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob could be small, but they are packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they will fail from time-to-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.
The most common reason a car remote key stops working is because dirt or crud have stuck between the buttons. To remove this obstruction take care to remove both batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab coated with alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that the key fob has been damaged somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by a sharp object. If this is the case, you can test your key fob's functionality by using another one.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your vehicle. This sensor is a small metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or prolonged use. To reactivate the sensor, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails you can test the capabilities of a spare key by opening and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to contact a 24-hour locksmith who offers automobile key repair to make your remote work again.
If the car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, try reprogramming your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for a long time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure it remains in sync with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation however it's much better than having to replace the remote completely.