Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. However, they can stop working at odd times.
Before you head to the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes when your key fob stops functioning. These steps could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk to your car, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will be opened and the engine will get started. It's a simple function that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. The keyless entry system, as any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or by other factors. If you're having problems with yours, you can either visit the dealer or phone an locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the vehicle's doors are not locked and the onboard computer activated. Some systems include a second receiver on the trunk of the car, which opens it automatically when you waggle your foot under it.
Each key fob has an unique digital identification code that is assigned by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to configure the fob with a specific car's system. This involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a predetermined sequence, and may also require pushing or pulling buttons or levers, or even removing the fuse.
When a key fob is programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system, it transmits the digital identity code as well as a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock, unlock, or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be using an authentication and encryption procedure. If it is authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and then starts the engine.
There are concerns that a clever criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a special device to record the transmission then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. key repairs of keyless entry systems employ the rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter that differs from 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 cheap and easy fix. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have traditional watch-style batteries which can be purchased in hardware stores or big-box retailers for $10 or less. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob on the web or in your vehicle's manual.
After you've removed the battery, be sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. If you mess with them the key fob could become unprogrammable and will not function. If you must move them, do it very gently, as certain key fobs have fasteners that easily open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.
key repair near me of most key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, use a pry tool. However, before you begin by putting the tool along the outside edge of the case as you would peel an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, since the fob case is often constructed of plastic and could break or crack if apply too much pressure to it.
Be sure to match the size and type of the battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others need one. A bad battery could render your remote keyfob useless.
If the issue persists, you can try again with your fob's key after installing the new battery. If not, you'll need to determine whether your device has a more complicated issue that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. It could be necessary to have the key fob reprogrammed at an authorized dealer or purchase another one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may be small however they're packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they're destined to fail from time to time. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly ceases to function, you can typically fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why that a car remote stop working is due to dirt or crud have lodged between the buttons. To clear this up, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button by using a cotton swab, dipped in alcohol rubbing. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before replacing the batteries.
It's also possible that the key fob has been damaged somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete, or perhaps damaged by something sharp. If that's the case, using another key fob to verify its function could reveal that the one you have simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle isn't working anymore. This sensor is a small metal component 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 a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If nothing else works, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by opening and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, it could be necessary to locate a 24-hour locksmith that offers car key repair to make your remote work again.
If the car key button is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for some time, it will have to be programmed each few months to ensure that it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation, but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.