Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes offer wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.
Before you head to the dealer, try some quick solutions if your key fob stops working. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your pocket or purse Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can walk up to your car, push an icon on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. But, like all devices that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system could fail due to repeated use or because of other reasons. If you've experienced problems with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Go to the dealership or contact a local locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system functions is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it's triggered to open the doors of the vehicle and also activate the computer onboard. Certain systems include a second transmitter on the trunk of the car that can be opened when you put one foot underneath it.
Each key fob is assigned an individual digital identification number by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by a unique process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the car several times in a specific sequence, and may also require pushing or pulling levers or buttons or removing fuse.
Once the key fob is programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identification code as well as a function-code to tell the car what to (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and begins the engine.
There are fears that a clever criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This will require a special device that records the transmission and then transmits it again in the event that the system doesn't want it. Most keyless entry systems utilize the rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of the 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. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have traditional watch-style batteries which are available at hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. You can find instructions to disassemble the key fob on the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Be cautious not to damage any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you have removed your battery. If you do this the key fob will become unprogrammable and will not function. If you have to move them, do it very gently because some key fobs come with fasteners that are able to pop open and scatter key fob components all over your living room.
Most key fobs have one hole that can be used with an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's a good idea to put your tool on the outside of the case first, just as you were peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is usually constructed of plastic and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you exert too the force.
Be sure to match the size and type of the battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others only have one. The incorrect battery could render your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is in place, try using your key fob again to see if the battery has fixed your problem. If not then you'll need to figure out if your fob has an issue that's more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you might need to have it reset by a dealer or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob altogether.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are small, and are filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they will fail from time-to-time. The good news is that 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 frequent reasons a car key remote stops working is due to dirt or dust that has accumulated between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped into the rubbing alcohol. Make sure you dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.
It's possible that your key fob was damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If car key repairs near me is the situation, you can check the functionality of your key fob by using another one.
The door lock sensor may have stopped working in your car. This sensor is a small metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or long use. To reactivate the sensor, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you could always test the operation of the spare key by attempting to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it may be necessary to locate a 24-hour locksmith that offers auto key repair to get your remote working again.
If your car key button is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to reprogram your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a period of time, it will have to be programmed every couple of months to ensure it is working properly with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to purchase a new remote.