Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes offer great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes cease to function at uninviable times.
If you find that your key fob is not working, try a few fixes before heading to the dealership. These steps could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle 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, press a button on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and safe. But just like any device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system can be damaged by repeated use or because of other reasons. If you've experienced problems with yours, you have two options: Go to the dealer or contact the local locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then searching for the response signal on a key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the computer on board is activated. Some systems include a second receiver on the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you waggle your foot on it.
Each key fob has an unique 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 several times in a specific sequence, and could require pushing or pulling levers or buttons or removing fuse.
Once the key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identity code and a function code that instruct the car on what to do (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The receiver on the car checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. The computer on board will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it is authenticated.
A clever criminal could intercept and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require a device to record the transmission and then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize the rolling code method to stop this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for the car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a cheap and easy fix. Most fobs are powered with watch-style batteries, which can be bought at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how you can disassemble your key fob and replace the battery.
Be cautious not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed the battery. If you mess with them the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't work. If you must move them, do so very gently as some key fobs come with fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob components across your living room.
Most key fobs have one hole that allows the screwdriver or another pry tool to pop 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. Don't apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic, and is susceptible to breaking or cracking with too excessive force.
Be sure to ensure that the size and type of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others have only one, and the wrong battery can quickly render your key fob remote useless.
If the issue persists, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If not it, you'll have to determine whether your device has an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you might require it to be reset by a dealer or you may need to purchase a new key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob could be tiny but they're loaded with electronic components. Therefore, car key repair cost '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.
The most common reason the car remote stops working is because dirt or crud has been stuck between the button. To get rid of this, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Make sure you dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the scenario, you can test your key fob's functionality 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 component that's attached to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not unusual for the sensor to break following long use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails you can always test the function of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to find an emergency locksmith who can provide automobile key repair in order to make your remote work again.
If your car's key fob does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try to re-programme your computer system. But keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for some time, it's likely to need to be programmed every couple of months to ensure it is working properly with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to buy an entirely new remote.