Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. Remotes that work with these remotes may stop working at the most inconvenient of moments.
If you notice that your key fob is not working, try a few quick fixes before heading to the dealership. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling 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, hit a button on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and safe. The keyless entry system, like any other device, could be damaged through repeated use or by other causes. If you have problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or call an locksmith.
Keyless entry systems work by sending radio signals, and then searching for a response signal from a key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it's triggered to unlock the vehicle doors and activate the onboard computer. Some systems have an additional receiver in the car's trunk that will open automatically when you move your foot underneath it.
Each key fob comes with an individual digital identification code, which is issued by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob to work with the specific car's system. This usually involves turning on the car's ignition repeatedly in a specific sequence. It could also require pulling or pushing different buttons and levers, or taking out fuse.
Once the key fob is programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code to instruct the car to (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver on the car checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. The onboard computer will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it's authorized.
There are fears that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This requires an instrument that records the transmission, and then retransmits it later in the event that the system doesn't want it to. Most keyless entry systems use rolling codes to combat this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a car has a counter that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for the car remote to not function. It's an easy and cheap fix when you have a spare key fob on in your possession to replace the previous one with. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which are available at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and swap out the battery.
After you've removed the battery, make sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. They are likely holding the key fob's program to your car's specific model, and messing with them will render it impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you need to move key fobs, be careful. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
car key repair company come with a single hole for a screwdriver or other pry tool to open the case. However, it's a good idea to put your tool on the outside of the case first, as if you would peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic and can break or crack if you apply too excessive pressure to it.
When you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match its size and type to the key fob. Some fobs require two batteries, whereas others have just one. Using the incorrect battery could make your remote key fob ineffective.
If the issue persists, you can try again with your fob's key after installing the new battery. If not then you'll need to figure out whether your device has an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. It could be necessary to have the fob reset at an authorized dealer or purchase another one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might be small however they're packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they'll occasionally fail. The good news is, in the event that your car's keypad isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons a car key remote fails to function is because dirt or grit has lodged between the buttons. To remove this obstruction, carefully remove both the batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab coated with alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob was damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using another key fob to test its functionality might reveal that it has been damaged and requires to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. The sensor is a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or prolonged use. To activate the sensor again simply press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can test the functionality of an extra key by trying to open and close your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who can repair your car keys to make your remote work again.
If the car key button is working but still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, you can try to reprogram your computer system. If you have had the same key fob for a time, it may require reprogramming every few months in order to to work with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace your remote entirely.