Improving Your Home Security

What To Do When The Keyless Entry To Your Vehicle Won't Work

by Clifton Montgomery

A keyless entry device is fantastic when it works properly. However, there is nothing more frustrating than to be in a hurry and unable to get into your vehicle because the keyless entry device isn't working. Before you hit the panic mode, be sure you are using it correctly. Here are a few pointers to aid in the process before you consider breaking a window or calling a locksmith for assistance.

Is the Remote the Problem?

When you purchased the vehicle, you should have received a key fob or a backup keyless device. Make sure you try that before you panic. If that does not work, there could be something wrong with the car. It could be a bad memory card or a broken transmitter.

Replace the Battery

If your keyless device is over a year old, the coin battery inside of the side of the remote may need to be replaced. The old remote battery will have a number on it making it easy to replace

If your keyless device is over a year old you should open the small side on the side of the remote, you will see a small coin battery. The old remote battery will have a number on it so it can be easily replaced. You can always take it to a battery store if you are afraid of damaging the key. Anyone working in the store can take the battery out, help you find a replacement, and put the new battery in for you.

Reprogram the Remote

In some cases, the memory may be lost and this is more possible if a faulty battery has been in the device. The main thing you need to do is use the key and get into the vehicle. Close the doors and reprogram the remote by putting the key in the ignition switch.

You do not have to start the car; just alternate the key between the first and second settings until you hear a chime similar to a door ajar sound. Begin the programming by pressing the remote buttons, confirming the programming, until you hear a second chime.

Remove the key from the ignition switch, leave and close the car, and lock all the doors. You will only need to wait about 20 seconds to see if the remote reprogrammed. Obviously, you will know whether or not the reprogramming worked based on whether or not your remote can lock and unlock your door.

The most important thing to remember is not to panic. There is no reason to call and spend money on a locksmith, like the ones at Action Lock & Safe, until you've gone through the steps of this guide and been unable to fix the problem on your own. Fortunately, a locksmith can help you if you are unable to resolve the problem with the steps in this guide. 

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