Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient instances.
If you find that your key fob no longer working, try a few quick fixes before going to the dealership. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk to your car, press a button on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. But just like any device it's possible that the keyless entry system could break from frequent use or due to other factors. If you're having problems with yours, you can either visit the dealer or call a locksmith.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals and then looking for a response signal from a key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it triggers to unlock the car doors and also activate the computer onboard. Certain systems have a second receiver on the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob has an individual digital identity code that's issued by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a unique process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a certain sequence, and may also require pushing or pulling buttons or levers or levers or removing fuse.
When a key fob is programmed to the car's keyless entry system, it transmits the digital identity code along with an operation code that tells 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 computer on board unlocks the vehicle and begins the engine.
There are concerns that a clever criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. 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. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to stop this. This ensures that every new transmitter signal received by a car has a counter that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most common cause of the car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. It's a simple and inexpensive fix when you have a spare key fob on in your possession to replace the previous one with. Luckily, most fobs use traditional watch-style batteries which are sold at big-box stores or hardware retailers for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or your car's owner manual should provide instructions on how you can disassemble the fob that you have been using and swap out the battery.
Be cautious not to damage any circuits or antennas inside the case once you've removed the battery. If you do this the key fob will become unprogrammable and may not work. If you must move them, do so slowly, as some key fobs have fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob pieces throughout your living space.
Most key fobs have one hole that can be used with a screwdriver or other pry tool to pop open the case, but it's a good idea to put your tool on the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an orange or apple. Do not apply car key repairs since the case of the key fob is usually constructed of plastic and can crack or break when you apply too much force.
If you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match the size and style to your key fob. Some fobs require two batteries, while others have just one. The wrong battery can quickly render your remote key fob useless.
If the issue continues, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not then you'll need to figure out whether your key fob is suffering from an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. car key repairs may have to have your key fob reset at the dealer or purchase another one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and are packed with delicate electronics. So it's not too surprising that they're doomed to fail from time to time. The good thing is, in the event that your car's keypad stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons that a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries with care and clean each button using an abrasive that is dipped in the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that the key fob was harmed by accident, such as being dropped on concrete, or perhaps scratched by something sharp. If this is the case, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using another one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. It's a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It's not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or prolonged usage. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of a spare key by trying to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to find a 24-hour locksmith that offers auto key repair to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car key button works but cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. If you've had the same key fob a time, it may need to be reset every couple of months to to work with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace your remote entirely.