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 engine. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient times.
If you notice that your key fob is no longer working, try a few simple fixes before heading to the dealer. These steps could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to your car, push the button on the keyfob and the doors will open and the engine will start. It's a useful feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and safer. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or other causes. If you've had issues with yours, you have two options: Go to the dealership or call the local locksmith.
The way that a keyless entry system functions is by sending out radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the car's doors are not locked and the onboard computer is activated. key repairs near me The Keylab have an additional receiver in the trunk of the car that opens automatically when you put your foot under it.
Each key fob is given a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to set the fob up with a specific car's system. This typically involves turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a specific sequence and may also involve pushing or pulling various buttons and levers or taking out fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code that instruct the car to (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be through an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer on board will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it's authorized.
There are concerns that a criminal with a sly approach 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 retransmit it later when the system isn't expecting it. To combat this, most keyless entry systems use the rolling code method that ensures that every new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of a car remote key fob not working is an inoperative battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have standard watch-style batteries that are sold at big-box stores or hardware retailers for less than $10. A quick search of 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.
After you've removed your battery, be sure not to damage any antennas or circuits within the case. If you do this the key fob could become unprogrammable and will not function. If you have to move them, do it slowly as some key fobs have fasteners that easily open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.
The majority of key fobs have one hole that can be used with an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case, but 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. Don't apply too much pressure, as the fob case is often made of plastic and may break or crack if you apply too much force to it.
Be sure to match the size and type of battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others require one. The wrong battery could render your remote keyfob useless.
If the issue continues, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If it doesn't work then you'll have to determine if the fob is experiencing something more complicated that requires professional diagnosis. You may have to have your key fob reprogrammed by the dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are tiny, and filled with delicate electronics. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're doomed to fail from time to time. The good news is, if your car key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most common reason a car remote key stops working is because dirt or crud have lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped into the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using another key fob to test its functionality might reveal that it has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
The door lock sensor may have stopped working in your vehicle. This sensor is a small metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended use. Press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.
If all else fails you can test the capabilities of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car key button works but cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. If you have had the same key fob for a time, it may require reprogramming every few months in order to continue working with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to buy another remote.