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Car remotes offer wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient of instances.
Before you go to the dealer, you can try a few quick fixes in case your key fob isn't working. These tips could save you money.
Keyless Entry System
Instead of having to fiddle around with keys in your purse or pocket Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can stroll up to your car, press a button on your key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more enjoyable and safe. But, like all devices it's possible that the keyless entry system may be damaged by frequent use or due to other reasons. If you are having issues with your system, you can either visit the dealer or phone an locksmith.
The way a keyless entry system operates is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, the vehicle's doors are unlocked and the computer on board is activated. Certain systems have a second transmitter on the trunk of the car which opens it when you waggle a foot under it.
Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. A unique process of technology known as "programming" is used to configure the fob with the car's specific system. This requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a predetermined sequence. It may also require pushing or pulling buttons or levers or levers or removing the fuse.
Once a key fob is programmed to the car's keyless entry system, it transmits the digital identity code, along with a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver on the car confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine when it is authorized.
A clever criminal could intercept and use the code sent between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require a device to record the transmission then transmit it again when the system isn't expecting 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 vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for a car remote key fob not working is an inoperative battery. It's a simple and inexpensive fix in the event that you have an extra key fob on hand to replace the old one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize standard watch-style batteries that are sold in hardware stores or big-box retailers for $10 or less. You can find directions to disassemble your key fob on the web or in your vehicle's manual.
Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you've removed the battery. If you do this the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't work. If you must move them, do so with care because certain key fobs have fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob components throughout your living space.
The case of a majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, make use of a pry tool. To begin, wedge the pry tool along the outside edge of the case like you would when peeling an orange or apple. Do not apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is generally constructed of plastic and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you apply too the force.
Be sure to match the size and style of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only need one. A bad battery could render your remote keyfob useless.
If the issue persists, you can try again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If this fails then you'll be required to determine if your fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. If this is the case, you could require it to be changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a replacement key fob altogether.
Buttons
The little buttons on your key fob are small, and they're filled with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're likely to fail from time to time. The good thing is, if your car key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.
The most common reason that a car remote stop working is due to dirt or crud has gotten trapped between the buttons. To get rid of this remove the batteries and clean each button using a cotton swab that has been coated with rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.
It's possible that the key fob has been damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by a sharp object. If this is the scenario, you can test your key fob's functionality by using another one.
Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock has stopped working. It's a tiny, metal piece that is attached to the door lock button on your key fob, and it's not uncommon for this sensor to break during long-term use or exposure to weather conditions. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.
If all else fails you can always test the functionality of a spare key by opening and locking your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it could be necessary to find an emergency locksmith who can provide automobile key repair in order to get your remote working again.
If your car key button does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, you can try reprogramming your computer system. Be aware that if you've used the same key fob for a long time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure that it is working properly with your vehicle. This isn't the best option but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.