Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes offer wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient of times.
If you discover that your key fob not working, you can try a few quick fixes before heading to the dealer. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket 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 simple function that makes driving a car more comfortable and secure. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, may be damaged through repeated use or other causes. If you have problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or phone a locksmith.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals and then searching for the response signal on a key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the vehicle's doors are opened and the computer on board is activated. Some systems have an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car that opens it when you waggle a foot under it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling various buttons and levers or taking out fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identification code along with a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk, or open the trunk). The receiver on the car checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and then starts the engine.
A savvy criminal could steal and use the code sent between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require the use of a device that records the transmission and then retransmits it in the event that the system doesn't want it. To prevent this from happening issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use rolling code that ensures that every new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
The most common cause of a car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. It's a simple and inexpensive fix if you have an extra key fob on in your possession to replace the previous one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize standard watch-style batteries that can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your car's manual.
Be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed your battery. If you make a mess of them the key fob could become unprogrammable and will not function. If you must move them, do so slowly because some key fobs come with fasteners that are able to pop open and scatter key fob parts throughout your living space.
The case of a majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to use a tool to pry it open. However, before you begin by putting the tool along the outside edge of the case like you would peel an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure since the case of the key fob is generally made of plastic, and it is prone to break or crack when you apply too excessive force.
Make sure you match the size and style of battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others need one. A bad battery could make your remote key fob useless.
If the issue persists it is possible to try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not then you'll need to figure out whether your device has an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you may need to have it reset by a dealer or you may need to buy a replacement key fob completely.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are tiny, and packed with delicate electronics. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're doomed to fail from time time. If your car key button suddenly stops working, you can generally fix it yourself.
One of the main reasons a car key remote stops working is because dirt or grit has accumulated between the buttons. To get rid of this remove the batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been that has been dipped in alcohol rubbing. Be sure to dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that the key fob was damaged somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched by something sharp. If this is the case, using a different key fob to verify its function could reveal that the one you have been damaged and requires to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle isn't working anymore. It's a tiny 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 extended usage. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. car key repair service will reset the sensor.
If all else fails, you can always check the functioning of the spare key by attempting to unlock and lock your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may need to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to make your remote work again.
If your car's key fob is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. If you've had the same key fob a time, it may require reprogramming every few months in order to continue to work with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation but it's better than having to replace your remote completely.