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. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient of moments.
Before you visit the dealer, try some quick fixes in case your key fob isn't functioning. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to car key fob repair , press the button on the keyfob and the doors will be opened and the engine will start. It's a useful feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and more secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, could be damaged through repeated use or other factors. If you are having issues with yours, you can either visit the dealer or phone a locksmith.
Keyless entry systems work by sending radio signals and then scouring for a response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it triggers to unlock the vehicle doors and activate the computer onboard. Some systems include an additional receiver in the trunk of the car, which will open automatically when you waggle your foot on it.
Each key fob is assigned an individual digital identification number by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with a specific car's system. This requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a certain 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 identification code and a function code to tell the car what 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 computer on board will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine when it is authorized.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This will require an instrument that records the transmission and then transmits it again in the event that the system doesn't want it to. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on rolling code that ensures that every new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for the car remote to not function. It's a simple and inexpensive fix in the event that you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. Most fobs are powered with watch-style batteries that are available at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to take apart your key fob and swap out the battery.
Be careful not to harm any circuits or antennas inside the case after you've removed your battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your specific car, and messing with them will render it impossible to program (and likely to fail). If you have to move them, do so very gently as certain key fobs have fasteners that easily open and scatter key fob parts throughout your living space.
Most key fobs have one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case. However, it's a good idea to use your tool to wedge it around the outside of the case first, like you were peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure since the case of the key fob is usually constructed of plastic and can crack or break when you exert too the force.
When you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match its size and type to the key fob. Certain fobs require two batteries, while others only have one, and the wrong battery can make your remote key fob ineffective.
After the new battery is in place, try using your key fob for the second time to see if it fixes your problem. If not then you'll need to figure out whether your device has an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you may need to have it changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob might appear small however they're packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they malfunction from time to time. If your car key button suddenly stops working, you can generally fix it yourself.
The most common reason that a car remote stop working is due to dirt or crud has been lodged between the button. To clear this up take care to remove both batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Make sure you dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob is 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 might reveal that it has been damaged and requires to be replaced.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your vehicle. The sensor is a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It's not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or prolonged use. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by opening and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it could be necessary to locate an emergency locksmith who can provide car key repair to get your remote working again.
You can change the settings on your computer if the car key fob works, but it still does not lock or unlock the vehicle. But 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 it is working properly with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.