Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the engine. But, these remotes sometimes stop working at odd times.
Before you head to the dealer, try some quick solutions when your key fob stops functioning. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket instead, 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 function that makes driving a car more comfortable and safe. However, just like any other device it's possible that the keyless entry system may be damaged by repeated use or because of other reasons. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: Visit the dealership or call a local locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then looking for the response signal on a key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the vehicle doors and also activate the computer onboard. Some systems include a second receiver on the trunk of the car that will open automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob is given a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to make sure that the fob is set up with the car's specific system. This typically involves turning the ignition of the car multiple times in a particular sequence and may also require pulling or pushing different buttons and levers, or the removal of fuse.
Once the key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code that instruct the car on what to do (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The receiver in the car verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be using an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and then starts the engine.
A clever criminal could intercept and then use the code that is transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a special device to record the transmission and then retransmit it when the system isn't expecting it. Most keyless entry systems use the rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that every new transmitter signal received by a car has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most common cause of a car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. It's a simple and inexpensive fix if you have an extra key fob on in your possession to replace the previous one with. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have standard watch-style batteries that are available at hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. A quick search on the internet or in your vehicle's owner manual should provide instructions on how you can disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
After you've removed your battery, make sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. If you make a mess of them the key fob could become unprogrammable and may not work. If you need to move key fobs, take care. Certain key fobs might have fasteners which can easily open and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
The majority of key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's best to use your tool to wedge it around the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and can crack or break with too much force.
Be sure to match the size and style of battery to your key fob when replacing it. Some fobs require two batteries, while others have only one, and the wrong battery can quickly render your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is in place, test your key fob once more to see if it solves your issue. If this fails then you'll be required to determine if your fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. It could be necessary to have the key fob reprogrammed at an authorized dealer or purchase a new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may be tiny, but they are packed with electronic components. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're likely to fail from time to time. The good news is, in the event that your car's keypad stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the main reasons that a car key remote doesn't work is that dirt or crud has accumulated between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with an abrasive that has been submerged in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to replacing the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob was damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using a different key fob to check its functionality may reveal that yours has been damaged and requires to be replaced.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. This is a tiny metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not common for this sensor to break after long use or exposure to weather conditions. To reactivate the sensor just press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If repair key works, you can always test the function of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If repair key doesn't work, it could be necessary to locate a 24-hour locksmith that offers automobile key repair in order to get your remote working again.
You can change the settings on your computer if your car key button is working however it cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. But keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for some time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure that it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to purchase another remote.