Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes stop working at inconvenient times.
Before you visit the dealer, you can try a few quick solutions when your key fob stops working. These tips 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 stroll up to your car, press a button on your key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. But just like any device it's possible that the keyless entry system may fail due to repeated use or because of other factors. If you're having problems with your system, you can either visit the dealer or phone a locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals and then looking for a response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the onboard computer is activated. Some systems have another receiver mounted on the car's trunk that opens it automatically when you waggle your foot under it.
Each key fob is assigned an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning the car's ignition repeatedly in a specific sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling various levers and buttons or the removal of fuses.
Once a key fob has been programmed to the car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identity code along with a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock in, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver in the car verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authorized.
There are fears that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems utilize a rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most common reason for the car remote to not function. It's a cheap and easy fix when you have another key fob at in your possession to replace the previous one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize traditional watch-style batteries which are available at big-box stores or hardware retailers for $10 or less. You can find directions to disassemble your key fob by searching the web or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to harm any circuits or antennas inside the case after you have removed your battery. If you make a mess of them the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't function. If you must move them, do it very gently, as some key fobs have fasteners that can easily pop open and scatter key fob components across your living room.
The case of most key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to use a tool to pry it open. But, to start by putting the tool around the outer edge of the case like you would when peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as the case of the fob is usually made of plastic and may crack or break if you apply too excessive force to it.
When you're ready to replace the battery, be sure to match its size and type to your key fob. Some key fobs have two batteries, while others only require one. my latest blog post could make your remote key fob useless.
If the issue persists it is possible to try again using your fob's key after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work you'll be required to determine if your fob is experiencing a more complex issue that requires a specialist diagnosis. You may have to have the fob reset at the dealer or purchase a new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may appear small however they're packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they're destined to fail from time time. The good news is, when your car's key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why a car remote key stops working is due to dirt or crud has gotten lodged between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries carefully and scrub each button with the help of a cotton swab which has been submerged in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.
It's also possible that the key fob was damaged somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete, or perhaps scratched by a sharp object. If this is the situation, you can check your key fob's functionality by using a different one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. The sensor is a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It is not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or prolonged usage. To reactivate the sensor, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If nothing else works, you can always test the functionality of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it could be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer automobile key repair in order to get your remote working again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car key fob works, but it still cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. However, keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a long time, it's likely to need to be programmed every few months to ensure that it remains in sync with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation however it's much better than having to replace your remote entirely.