Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.
Before you visit the dealer, try some quick solutions when your key fob stops working. These steps could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Rather than needing to fumble around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk to your car, hit an icon on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a practical feature that has made the experience of driving a car more enjoyable and more secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or other factors. If you've had issues with yours, there are two options: visit the dealership or contact the local locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system operates is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it's triggered to unlock the vehicle doors and activate the computer onboard. Certain systems have a second receiver on the trunk of the car that opens automatically when you move your foot under it.
Each key fob is equipped with a unique digital identification code, which is assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with an exclusive process known as "programming". This usually involves turning on the ignition of the car several times in a certain sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling different buttons and levers, or the removal of fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identity code as well as a function-code to instruct the car on what to do (lock the trunk, unlock it or open the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be through an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer in the car will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it's authorized.
There are fears that a clever criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This will require a device that records the transmission and then retransmits it in the event that the system doesn't want it. To help combat this, most keyless entry systems use a method called rolling code that guarantees that each new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for car remotes not to function. It's a cheap and easy fix when you have a spare key fob on hand to replace the old one with. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that are available at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the web or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to harm any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed your battery. They are likely holding the key fob's programming to your specific 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 have fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.
Most key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case. However, it's a good idea put your tool on the outside of the case first, like you would peeling an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, as the case of the fob is usually constructed of plastic and could crack or break if you apply too much pressure to it.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of battery to your key fob when replacing it. Certain fobs require two batteries, whereas others have just one. Using the incorrect battery could make your remote key fob useless.
After the new battery is installed, test your key fob for the second time to see if it solves your problem. If it doesn't work, you will have to determine if the fob is experiencing an issue that is more complicated and requires a professional diagnosis. It could be necessary to have the key fob reprogrammed by an authorized dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are small, and they're packed with delicate electronic components. It's not surprising that they fail from time-to-time. The good news is that when your car's key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most common reasons a car key remote fails to function is due to dirt or dust that has lodged between the buttons. To remedy this, take out the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with the help of a cotton swab which has been dipped into rubbing alcohol. Be how to repair car key fob to dry the buttons completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case, you can test the function of your key fob using another one.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. It's a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or prolonged use. To activate the sensor again just press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can test the functionality of the spare key by attempting to open and close 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 can repair your car keys to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if the car key button is working, but it still doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. However, keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for a period of time, it will have to be programmed every couple of months to ensure that it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than having to purchase a new remote.