Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, access trunks and even start the engine. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient of times.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes when your key fob stops functioning. These steps could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk up to your car, hit a button on your key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a practical feature that has made the world of driving a car more enjoyable and more secure. But just like any device, the keyless entry system can be damaged by repeated use or due to other factors. If you have problems with yours, you may either visit the dealer or call a locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals, and then scouring for the response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it triggers to unlock the car doors and activate the onboard computer. Some systems have an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car that opens when you move a 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 ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a specific sequence and may include pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or removing fuses.
Once a key fob is programmed to the car's keyless entry system, it transmits the digital identity code as well as a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms that the transmitter is the person it claims to be through an authentication and encryption procedure. If it is authorized, the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and starts the engine.
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 requires a device that records the transmission, and then transmits it again when the system doesn't expect it to. To prevent this from happening issue, the majority of keyless entry systems rely on rolling code that ensures that every new transmitter signal received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most common reason for car remotes not to work. It's a cheap and easy fix when you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have standard watch-style batteries that are available at big-box stores or hardware retailers for less than $10. You can find directions to disassemble the key fob on the internet or in your vehicle's manual.
Be cautious not to damage any of the circuits or antennas within the case once you've removed your battery. They're likely to be holding the key fob's programming to your specific car and any disruption to them will render it unprogrammable (and probably not work). If you need to move key fobs, be careful. Certain key fobs could have fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.
Most key fobs have one hole that can be used with an screwdriver or similar tool to open the case. However, it's best to put your tool on the outside of the case first, as if you would peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and it is prone to break or crack when you apply too the force.
When you're ready to replace the battery, make sure to match its size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs require two batteries, while others have only one, and the wrong battery can make your remote key fob useless.
If the issue continues then you can try it again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If not it, you'll have to determine if your fob has an issue that is more complex and requires professional diagnosis and repair. You may have to have the fob reset at the dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The tiny buttons on your key fob are small, and are packed with delicate electronics. It's not surprising that they will malfunction from time to time. If the car key button suddenly stops working, you can typically fix it yourself.
online of the most common reasons a car key remote doesn't work is due to dirt or dust that has become lodged between the buttons. To remove this obstruction remove the batteries and scrub each button using a cotton swab that has been coated with ruby alcohol. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before installing the batteries.
It's also possible that the key fob has been damaged by accident, such as being dropped on concrete, or perhaps scratched by a sharp object. If this is the scenario, you can test the function of your key fob using a different one.
The door lock sensor could have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny, metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not common for this sensor to break after long-term use or exposure to weather conditions. To reactivate the sensor, simply try pressing your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may have to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who can repair your car keys to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if your car's key fob works, but it still does not lock or unlock the vehicle. If you've used the same key fob a time, it may require reprogramming every few months to continue working with your vehicle. This isn't the best option but it's better than having to replace your remote completely.