A Good Rant 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 engine. However, they can stop working at inconvenient times.
If you notice that your key fob is not working, you can try a few fixes before going to the dealership. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk up to your car, push the button on the keyfob, and the doors will unlock and the engine will start. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and secure. The keyless entry system, as any other device, can be damaged through repeated use or by other elements. If you've experienced problems with yours, there are two options: Go to 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 remote key fob repair near me is able to recognize the signal, the vehicle's doors are opened and the onboard computer is activated. Certain systems include another transmitter located in the trunk of the car which can be opened when you put a foot under it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob with the car's specific system. This usually involves turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a specific sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling various levers and buttons or taking out fuses.
Once a key fob is programmed to your vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code as well as a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock, unlock, or open the trunk). The receiver on the car verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and begins the engine.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This requires a special device that records the transmission, and then transmits it again in the event that the system doesn't want it to. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on the rolling code method that guarantees that each new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter 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 in the event that you have a spare key fob on your desk to replace the old one with. Luckily, most fobs use traditional watch-style batteries which can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware retailers for as little as $10. A quick search on the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how you can disassemble your key fob and replace the battery.
After you've removed the battery, be sure not to disturb any antennas or circuits within the case. If you mess with them, the key fob will become unprogrammable and may not function. If you must move them, do so very gently as some key fobs have fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.
Most key fobs come with a single hole for the screwdriver or another pry tool to open the case, however it's best to put your tool on the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is generally composed of plastic and it is prone to break or crack when you apply too much force.
Make sure you ensure that the size and type of battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only require one. The wrong battery could cause your remote to become useless.
If the issue persists it is possible to try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If it doesn't, you'll need to determine if your fob has an issue that's more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If remote key fob repair near me is the case, you might require it to be changed by a dealer or buy a replacement key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are small, and are packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they fail from time-to-time. The good thing is, when your car's key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.
One of the most frequent reasons why a car key remote fails to function is due to dirt or dust that has become lodged between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with an abrasive that has been dipped into the rubbing alcohol. Make 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 accidentally damaged by something sharp. If this is the scenario, you can test the functionality of your key fob by using another one.
The door lock sensor might 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 activate the sensor again simply press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If nothing else works, you can test the capabilities of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, you may have to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to get your remote working again.
You can reprogram your computer if the car key fob works but doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. If you've had the same key fob for a while, it may require reprogramming every few months to to work with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to purchase a new remote.