Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes provide a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes stop working at inconvenient times.
Before you go to the dealer, try some quick solutions if your key fob stops functioning. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk to your car, push the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will get started. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and secure. However, just like any other device it's possible that the keyless entry system could break from frequent use or due to other reasons. If you've encountered issues with yours, you have two options: Go to the dealership or call an emergency locksmith in your area.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals, and then scouring for the response signal from a key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it's triggered to unlock the vehicle doors and also activate the onboard computer. Certain systems include another transmitter located in the trunk of the car which can be opened when you put one foot underneath it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using a proprietary process called "programming". This usually involves turning the ignition of the vehicle several times in a certain sequence and may include pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or the removal of fuses.
When a key fob is programmed to your specific car's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code along with an operation code that tells the car what to do (lock in, unlock, or open the trunk). The receiver on the car confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. If it is authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and begins the engine.
A clever criminal could intercept and use the code sent between the keyfob and the vehicle. This will require a special device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it when the system doesn't anticipate it to. Most keyless entry systems use a rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a vehicle has a counter that differs from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of a car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. Luckily, most fobs use standard watch-style batteries that can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box retailers for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to take apart the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.
After you've removed the battery, make sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. If you mess with them, the key fob will become unprogrammable and will not function. If you have to move the key fobs, be cautious. Certain key fobs might have fasteners that can easily pop out and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
Most key fobs come with a single hole for a screwdriver or other pry tool to open the case, but it's a good idea to 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 typically made of plastic, and can crack or break with too the force.
Make sure remote key repairs ensure that the size and type of battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some fobs require two batteries, whereas others have only one, and the incorrect battery could render your remote key fob useless.
If the issue continues, you can try again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If this fails then you'll have to determine if the fob is suffering from a more complex issue that requires a specialist diagnosis. It could be necessary to have your key fob reprogrammed by an authorized dealer or purchase an entirely new one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are small, and are filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're likely to fail from time to 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.
The most frequent reason why that a car remote stop working is because dirt or crud has been lodged between the button. To fix this, remove the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with the help of a cotton swab which has been dipped into ruby alcohol. Make sure to dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob has been damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If that's the case, using a different key fob to verify its function might reveal that it has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.
The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. It's 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 after prolonged usage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. To activate the sensor again just press your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all other options fail, you can always check the functioning of a spare key by trying to lock and unlock your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, you might need to contact a 24-hour locksmith who provides repair of car keys to make your remote work again.
You can change the settings on your computer if the car key button works however it cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. If you've had the same key fob a while, it may require reprogramming every few months to to work with your vehicle. It's not ideal, but it is better than buying a new remote.