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. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient of instances.
If you discover that your key fob not working, you can try a few simple fixes before heading to the dealership. key repair car may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Simply walk up to your car, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will unlock and the engine will start. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and secure. But, like all devices, the keyless entry system can break from frequent use or due to other reasons. If you are having issues with your system, you can either visit the dealer or phone an locksmith.
Keyless entry systems work by sending radio signals, and then scouring for the response signal on a key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it's triggered to unlock the vehicle doors and activate the onboard computer. Some systems have another transmitter located in the trunk of the car which opens when you move one foot underneath it.
Each key fob is given an individual digital identification number by the manufacturer. A unique process of technology known as "programming" is used to set the fob up with a specific car's system. This requires turning the ignition of the car several times in a specific sequence, and may also require pulling buttons or levers or levers or removing fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed to your specific vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identity code as well as a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock in, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. The computer on board will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it is authorized.
A skilled criminal could snoop and use the code transmitted between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This will require a device that records the transmission and then retransmits it when the system doesn't anticipate it to. To combat this issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use a method called rolling code that guarantees that each new transmitter signal received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of car remotes key fobs not working is an inoperative battery. 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 car's owner's manual should give you instructions on how you can 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're likely to be holding the key fob's programming to your specific car and any disruption to them will render it impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you must move the key fobs, be cautious. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily be removed and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
Most key fobs have a single hole for a screwdriver or other pry 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. Do not apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is usually constructed of plastic and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you exert too much force.
Make sure you match the size and type of battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries, while others only require one. The wrong battery can render your remote keyfob useless.
After the new battery is in place, test your key fob for the second time to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If it doesn't then you'll need to figure out if your fob has a more complicated issue that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. You may need to have the key fob reprogrammed by a dealer or buy an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and they're packed with delicate electronics. So it's not too surprising that they're likely to fail from time to time. If the car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can generally fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries with care and scrub each button with an abrasive that has been submerged in the rubbing alcohol. Make sure you dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in any way, for example, being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the scenario, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using a different one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. It's a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or long usage. To reactivate the sensor simply press your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can always test the functionality of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may need to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who can repair your car keys to make your remote work again.
If your car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try reprogramming your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for some time, it will have to be programmed each few months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to purchase another remote.