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 can cease to function at uninviable times.
If you find that your key fob not working, try a few quick fixes before going to the dealership. These steps may save you money.
Keyless Entry System
There's no need to search for keys in your pockets or purse. Just walk to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will be opened and the engine will start. It's a practical feature that has made the experience of driving a car more enjoyable and more secure. But just like any device it's possible that the keyless entry system could be damaged by repeated use or because of other reasons. If you've had issues with your keyless entry system, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact an emergency locksmith in your area.
Keyless entry systems work by sending radio signals and then scouring for the response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it triggers to unlock the vehicle doors and also activate the computer onboard. Certain systems include a second transmitter on the trunk of the car that opens when you move your foot beneath 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 car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence and may include pulling or pushing different buttons and levers, or taking out fuse.
Once a key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identification code as well as a function-code to instruct the car to (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be using an authentication and encryption procedure. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and starts the engine.
There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then retransmit it later in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on rolling code, which ensures that each new signal from the transmitter received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for car remotes key fobs not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize standard watch-style batteries that are sold at big-box stores or hardware retailers for $10 or less. A quick search of the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to take apart your key fob and replace the battery.
Be careful not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed the battery. If you do this the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't function. If you need to move key fobs, be cautious. Certain key fobs might come with fasteners that are able to be removed and scatter key fob pieces across your living space.
Most key fobs have a single hole for a screwdriver or other pry tool to open the case. However, it's a good idea put your tool on the outside of the case first, like you were peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and can crack or break when you apply too the force.
When you're ready for replacing the battery, be sure to match its size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs require two batteries, whereas others have only one, and the wrong battery can quickly render your key fob remote useless.
If the issue continues then you can try it again using your fob's key after installing the new battery. If it doesn't work you'll need to determine whether your fob is experiencing an issue that is more complicated and requires a professional diagnosis. You may need to have your key fob reset at a dealer or buy an entirely new one.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are pretty small, and they're packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they will fail from time-to-time. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly stops working, you'll be able to typically fix it yourself.
The most common reason the car remote stops working is due to dirt or crud has been stuck between the button. To remove this obstruction take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab coated with ruby alcohol. Make sure to dry them completely before replacing the batteries.
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 an alternative key fob to check its functionality may reveal that yours has been damaged and requires to be replaced.
Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle has stopped working. The sensor is a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It is not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended use. To reactivate repair key press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If nothing else works, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it may be necessary to locate a 24-hour locksmith that offers automobile key repair in order to get your remote operating again.
If your car's key fob is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try to reprogram your computer system. If you have had the same key fob a time, it might require reprogramming every few months in order to to work with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace your remote entirely.