Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes provide a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. However, they may stop working at odd times.
If you notice that your key fob is no longer working, try a few quick fixes before going to the dealer. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk up to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will open and the engine will start. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and safe. But, like all devices, the keyless entry system could break from repeated use or because of other reasons. If you have problems with yours, you can either visit the dealer or call an locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system operates is by sending radio signals, and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it triggers to open the doors of the vehicle and activate the onboard computer. Some systems have a second receiver on the trunk of the car that opens it automatically when you waggle your foot under it.
Each key fob is assigned an individual digital identification number by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by an exclusive process known as "programming". This typically involves turning the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence. It could also involve pushing or pulling different buttons and levers, or taking out fuses.
When a key fob is programmed to your specific vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code along with an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock in, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be through an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will unlock the vehicle and start the engine when it is authenticated.
A clever criminal could intercept and use the code transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then transmit it again when the system isn't expecting it. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on rolling code, which ensures that each new transmitter signal 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 the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Most fobs are powered by watches-style batteries, which can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
Be careful not to damage any circuits or antennas inside the case after you've removed the battery. If you make a mess of them the key fob will become unprogrammable and may not function. If you have to move them, do it slowly, as some key fobs come with fasteners that easily open and scatter key fob components all over your living room.
The case of a majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, make use of a pry tool. But, to start you must push the tool around the outer edge of the case, just as you would 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 can crack or break with too much force.
When you're ready to replace the battery, make sure to match the size and type to your key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries while others require one. The wrong battery could render your remote keyfob useless.
If the issue continues, you can try again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work you'll need to determine whether your fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. You may have to have the key fob reset at a dealer or buy a new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may appear small but they're loaded with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they occasionally fail. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly stops working, you can generally fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons that a car key remote fails to function is that dirt or crud has lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries carefully and scrub each button with an abrasive that is dipped in the rubbing alcohol. Make sure to dry them completely before installing the batteries.
It's possible that the key fob was damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or unintentionally damaged by something sharp. If that's the case, using a different key fob to test its functionality may reveal that yours has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. It's a tiny metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not uncommon for this sensor to break following long use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Press car key repair shop near me without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails you can test the capabilities of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, it may be necessary to find an 24 hour locksmith that can offer automobile key repair in order to make your remote work again.
If your car key button is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try to re-programme your computer system. But keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a period of time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure it remains in sync with your vehicle. This isn't the best option but it's better than having to replace your remote entirely.