Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
The car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, access trunks, and even start the engine. However, they may stop working at odd times.
If electronic car key repair near me discover that your key fob not working, try a few quick fixes before going to the dealer. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will be opened and the engine will begin. It's a useful feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and more secure. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, could be damaged through repeated use or by other elements. If you've experienced problems with yours, there are two options: Visit the dealership or call an emergency locksmith in your area.
The way a keyless entry system works is by sending radio signals and then looking for a response signal from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are not locked and the onboard computer is activated. Some systems have an additional transmitter in the trunk of the car that can be opened when you put your foot beneath it.
Each key fob has an unique digital identification code that is assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by a proprietary process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the vehicle several times in a specific sequence, and could require pushing or pulling levers or buttons or removing the 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 that instruct the car to (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be using an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer in the car will unlock the vehicle and start the engine when it is authorized.
There are fears that a clever 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 and then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ the rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that every new signal from a transmitter received by a vehicle has a counter value that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most common reason for the car remote to not work. 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 purchased at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble your key fob and swap out the battery.
After you've removed the battery, be careful not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. If you make a mess of them the key fob will become unprogrammable and may not work. If you must move them, do so with care as some key fobs come with fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob pieces across your living room.
The case of most key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, make use of a pry tool. To begin, wedge the pry tool along the outside edge of the case, just as you would do when peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically composed of plastic and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you apply too much force.
Be sure to match the size and type of the battery to your key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only require one. A bad battery could cause your remote to become useless.
If the problem persists then you can try it again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If it doesn't it, you'll have to determine whether your device has an issue that is more complex and requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you may require it to be reprogrammed by a dealer, or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are small, and are packed with delicate electronic components. It's not a surprise that they'll malfunction from time to time. The good news is that if your car key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most common reason a car remote key stops functioning is due to dirt or crud has been trapped between the buttons. To remove this obstruction remove the batteries and scrub each button using a cotton swab that has been that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before replacing the batteries.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using another key fob to verify its function may reveal that yours has been damaged and has to be replaced.
The door lock sensor may have been unable to function in your vehicle. This is a tiny metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not unusual for the sensor to break following prolonged use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. To reactivate the sensor, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of an extra key by trying to lock and unlock your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may have to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to get your remote working again.
If your car's key fob does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you may try to re-programme your computer system. Be aware 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 continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to purchase another remote.