Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a 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 go to the dealer, try some quick fixes if your key fob stops functioning. These tips could save you money.
car key repair shop near me of having to fiddle around with keys in your pocket or purse instead, stroll up to your car, push a button on the key fob, then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and safe. The keyless entry system, as any other device, may be damaged through repeated use or other causes. If you've experienced problems with yours, you have two options: visit the dealer or contact a local locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system works is by releasing radio signals and then looking for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the car doors and activate the computer onboard. Certain systems have an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car which opens when you move one foot underneath it.
Each key fob comes with an unique digital identification code that is given by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob to work with the specific car's system. This usually involves turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a specific sequence. It could also involve pushing or pulling various buttons and levers or the removal of fuses.
Once a key fob is programmed to your specific vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits the digital identity code along with a function code that tells the car what to do (lock in, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver on the car checks the authenticity of the transmitter by an authentication and encryption process. If it is authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and begins the engine.
A savvy criminal could steal and use the code transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then retransmit it when the system isn't expecting it. To prevent this from happening issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use the rolling code method that guarantees that each new signal from the transmitter received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of a car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be bought at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to take apart your key fob and replace the battery.
After you've removed your battery, make sure not to disturb any circuits or antennas inside the case. They're likely to be holding the key fob's program to your particular car and tampering with them can cause it to become impossible to program (and probably not work). If you must move them, do it with care as some key fobs come with fasteners that are able to pop open and scatter key fob parts throughout your living space.
The case of the majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to use a pry tool. But, to start you must push the tool around the outer edge of the case, just as you would peel an orange or apple. Do not apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is usually composed of plastic and can crack or break when you exert too excessive force.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of the battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others require one. The wrong battery could cause your remote to become useless.
Once the new battery is installed, test your key fob for the second time to see if it solves your problem. If not, you'll need to determine whether your key fob is suffering from a more complicated issue that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you could require it to be reset by a dealer or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob altogether.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may be small however they're packed with electronic components. It's not a surprise that they're doomed to fail from time time. If the car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can generally fix it yourself.
The most frequent reason why a car remote key stops working is due to dirt or crud has gotten stuck between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries in a careful manner and clean each button using an abrasive that is dipped in ruby alcohol. Make sure you dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the situation, you can check your key fob's functionality by using another one.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny, metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not uncommon for this sensor to break during prolonged usage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of a spare key by trying to lock and unlock your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it may be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer car key repair to get your remote working again.
If your car's key fob is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a period of time, it's going to need to be programmed every few months to ensure 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.