A Provocative Rant About Remote Car Key Repair
Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote
Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. These remotes are prone to malfunction at the most inconvenient moments.
Before you head to the dealer, try some quick solutions if your key fob stops working. These suggestions could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk to your car, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will be opened and the engine will begin. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, could be damaged by repeated use or by other factors. If you have problems with your system, you can either go to the dealer or contact a locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it triggers to open the doors of the vehicle and also activate the onboard computer. Some systems include another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car, which opens it automatically when you move your foot on it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to set the fob up to work with the specific car's system. This involves turning on the ignition of the car several times in a specific sequence. It may also 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 to instruct the car to (lock or unlock the trunk). The car's receiver confirms that the transmitter is the person it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption procedure. If it's authorized the computer on board unlocks the vehicle and starts the engine.
There are concerns that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it when the system isn't expecting it. Most keyless entry systems use rolling codes to prevent this. This ensures that every new transmission signal received by a car has a counter that is different from the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent cause of car remotes key fobs not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Luckily, most fobs use regular watch-style batteries that are available at big-box stores or hardware retailers for $10 or less. You can find directions to disassemble your key fob on the internet or in your car's manual.
Be careful not to damage any of the circuits or antennas within the case once you've removed your battery. They're likely to be holding the key fob's program to your car's specific model and any disruption to them can cause it to become impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you have to move the key fobs, take care. Some key fobs may have fasteners which can easily open and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
The case of most key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, you can use a pry tool. But, to start by putting broken car key repair near me around the outer edge of the case, just as you would when peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is usually made of plastic, and is susceptible to breaking or cracking with too excessive force.
If you're ready to replace the battery, make sure to match its size and style to your key fob. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others need 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 it, you'll have to determine whether your device has an issue that's more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you could need to have it reset by a dealer or buy a replacement key fob entirely.
Buttons
The buttons on your key fob are tiny, and packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they will fail from time-to-time. If your car key button suddenly stops working, you can typically fix it yourself.
One of the main reasons a car key remote fails to function is because dirt or grit 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 the rubbing alcohol. Make sure you dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that your key fob was damaged in any way, for example, being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case using another key fob to check its functionality could reveal that the one you have been damaged and has to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. The sensor is a tiny metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or prolonged use. Press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.
If all else fails, you can always check the functioning of a spare key by trying to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, you might need to contact a locksmith on call 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to make your remote work again.
You can reprogram your computer if the car key fob works however it doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. However, keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a period of time, it's going to need to be programmed each few months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than buying a new remote.