The Ugly The Truth About Remote Car Key Repair
Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. However, they can stop working at odd times.
If you discover that your key fob not working, you can try a few simple fixes before heading to the dealer. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk to your car, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will begin. It's a practical feature that has made the world of car driving more comfortable and safer. The keyless entry system, as any other device, may be damaged by repeated use or other factors. If you've experienced problems with yours, there are two options: Visit the dealership or call a local locksmith.
A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the vehicle's doors are opened and the computer on board is activated. Some systems have a second receiver on 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 make sure that the fob is set up with the car's specific system. This usually involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a specific sequence, and could include pulling or pushing various buttons and levers or taking out fuses.
Once the key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code that instruct the car to (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver in the car verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be using an authentication and encryption procedure. If it's authorized, the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and begins the engine.
A savvy criminal could steal and use the code transmitted between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it later when the system isn't expecting it. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on the rolling code method, which ensures that each new signal from the transmitter received by the car has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for car remotes not to work. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Luckily, most fobs use regular watch-style batteries that can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware retailers for $10 or less. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your car's manual.
Be careful not to harm any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed the battery. They're likely to be holding the key fob's programming to your particular car and tampering with them can cause it to become unprogrammable (and probably not work). If you have to move them, do so very gently as some key fobs come with fasteners that can easily pop open and scatter key fob components all over your living room.
The case of a majority of key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, use a pry tool. However, before you begin you must push the tool around the outer edge of the case as you would do when peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is usually constructed of plastic and can crack or break with too much force.
Be sure to ensure that the size and type of battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others only need one. The wrong battery could cause your remote to become useless.
After the new battery is installed, test your key fob for the second time to see if it fixes your issue. If not it, you'll have to determine whether your key fob is suffering from an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. You may have to have the key fob reset at an authorized dealer or purchase another one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are tiny, and filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're likely to fail from time time. The good thing is, when your car's key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons why a car key remote stops working is due to dirt or dust that has accumulated between the buttons. To remove this obstruction, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before replacing the batteries.
It's also possible that the key fob has been damaged by accident, such as being dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by a sharp object. If that's the case, using another key fob to test its functionality might reveal that it has been damaged and has to be replaced.
The door lock sensor could have stopped working in your car. This sensor is a small metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or long usage. To activate the sensor again simply press your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If remote key fob repair fails, you could test the functionality of an extra key by trying to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it could be necessary to find an 24 hour locksmith that can offer car key repair to get your remote working again.
If the car key button is working but still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for a long time, it's going to need to be programmed every couple of months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation, but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.