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. However, they may stop working at odd times.
Before you go to the dealer, consider some quick solutions in case your key fob isn't working. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk to your car, push 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 relaxing and safe. The keyless entry system, as any other device, could be damaged by repeated use or other elements. If you've had issues with yours, you have two options: Go to the dealership or call an emergency locksmith in your area.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then looking for a response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the car doors and also activate the onboard computer. Certain systems include a second transmitter on the trunk of the car which opens it when you waggle one foot underneath it.
Each key fob is assigned a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by a proprietary process called "programming". This involves turning the ignition of the vehicle several times in a specific sequence. It may also require pulling levers or buttons or removing fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific vehicle'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 confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and then starts the engine.
A skilled criminal could snoop and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This will require a special device that records the transmission and then retransmits it later in the event that the system doesn't want it. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to prevent this. This ensures that every new signal from a transmitter received by a car has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of a car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. You can find instructions to disassemble the key fob on the internet or in your car's manual.
Be careful not to damage any circuits or antennas inside the case after you have removed your battery. They're likely to be holding the key fob's program to your particular car and tampering with them can cause it to become impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you have to move them, do so very gently, as some key fobs have fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob pieces throughout your living space.
The case of most key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to make use of a pry tool. But, to start you must push the tool around the outer edge of the case as you would do when peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic and may crack or break if you apply too much force to it.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of battery to your key fob when replacing it. Some fobs require two batteries, whereas others have only one, and the wrong battery can quickly render your remote key fob ineffective.
Once the new battery is in place, try using your key fob once more to see if the battery has fixed your problem. 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. If this is the case, you could need to have it reprogrammed by a dealer, or purchase a new key fob completely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob could be tiny however they're packed with electronic components. So it's not too surprising that they're likely to fail from time time. The good news is that if your car key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to 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 get rid of this take care to remove both batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to reinstalling the 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 your key fob's functionality by using a different one.
The door lock sensor may have been unable to function in your vehicle. It's a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or long usage. Press repair key without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all else fails, you could test the functionality of a spare key by trying to lock and unlock your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to locate a 24-hour locksmith that offers automobile key repair in order to get your remote operating again.
If your car's key fob is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you may try reprogramming your computer system. If you have had the same key fob for a while, it may need to be reset every couple of months to continue working with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to buy a new remote.