Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent 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 no longer working, try a few fixes before heading to the dealer. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk to your car, push an icon on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's a useful feature that has made the world of car driving more comfortable and more secure. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or other factors. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: Visit the dealership or contact the local locksmith.
Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals and then scouring for the response signal from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the onboard computer is activated. Some systems include a second receiver on the car's trunk that will open automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob is equipped with an individual digital identification code, which is assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by an exclusive process known as "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a predetermined sequence, and could require pushing or pulling buttons or levers or levers or removing fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identity code and a function code to tell the car what to (lock or unlock the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be using an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it is authorized.
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 later when the system isn't expecting it. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to combat this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a car has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for car remotes key fobs not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize traditional watch-style batteries which are sold at hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. A quick search on the internet or your car's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
After you've removed the battery, be careful not to disrupt any antennas or circuits within the case. If you do this the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't function. If you have to move them, do it slowly, as some key fobs have fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.
The majority of key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, however it's a good idea wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, like you were peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is generally constructed of plastic and can crack or break when you exert too the force.
Make sure you match the size and type of battery to the key fob when you replace it. Certain fobs require two batteries, while others have only one, and the wrong battery can quickly make your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is in place, test your key fob again to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If it doesn't it, you'll have to determine whether your device has an issue that's more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. You may need to have the key fob reprogrammed by a dealer or buy another one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob may be tiny however they're packed with electronics. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're destined to fail from time time. The good news is that when your car's 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 stops working is because dirt or grit has lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries carefully and scrub each button with an abrasive that has been submerged in the rubbing alcohol. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before installing the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob has been 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 a different one.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle isn't working anymore. It's a tiny metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended 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 by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If car key remote repair near me doesn't work, it could be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer auto key repair to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car's key button works, but it still doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. Be aware that if you've owned the same key fob for a long time, it's likely to need to be programmed every couple of months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than buying an entirely new remote.