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 can stop working at odd times.
If you find that your key fob not working, try a few simple fixes before going to the dealer. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to your car, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will unlock and the engine will begin. It's a practical feature that has made the experience of driving a car more enjoyable and more secure. But just like any device, the keyless entry system could be damaged by frequent use or due to other reasons. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact the local locksmith.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals and then looking for the response signal on the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it's triggered to open the doors of the vehicle and also activate the onboard computer. Some systems include another receiver mounted on the car's trunk that opens it automatically when you move your foot on it.
Each key fob has an unique digital identification code that is given by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with an exclusive process known as "programming". remote key fob repair requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a predetermined sequence, and could require pulling levers or buttons or removing 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 on what to do (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and begins the engine.
A skilled criminal could snoop and use the code sent between the keyfob 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. To help combat this, most keyless entry systems rely on the rolling code method that guarantees that each new transmitter signal received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of the car remote key fob not working is an inoperative battery. It's a simple and inexpensive fix if you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have standard watch-style batteries that are available at big-box stores or hardware retailers for as little as $10. You can find directions to disassemble the key fob on the web or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you've removed the battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your car's specific model and any disruption to them will render it unprogrammable (and probably not work). If you have to move the key fobs, be cautious. Certain key fobs might have fasteners which can easily pop out and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
Most key fobs come with a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case. However, it's a good idea wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to 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 force to it.
Be sure to match the size and type of battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some fobs require two batteries, whereas others have just one. Using the incorrect battery could render your remote key fob ineffective.
After the new battery has been put installed, test your key fob for the second time to see if the battery has fixed your problem. If not then you'll need to figure out if your fob has a more complicated issue that requires 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 little buttons on your key fob are small, and they're filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're doomed to fail from time to time. The good thing is, if your car key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the main reasons why a car key remote doesn't work is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries in a careful manner and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been dipped into ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in any way, for example, being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using an alternative key fob to test its functionality may reveal that yours has been damaged and has to be replaced.
The door lock sensor might have been unable to function in your vehicle. This is a tiny metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break following long-term use or exposure to weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all else fails you can always test the function of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may have to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who can repair your car keys to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car's key button is working but doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. If car key remote repair 've had the same key fob for a time, it might need to be reprogrammed every few months to continue working with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to purchase another remote.