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Key Fob Unlocks But Won’t Start Car? [Causes And Solutions]

Imagine yourself approaching your car, pressing the button on your dependable key fob. As well as hearing your automobile unlock with a gratifying click. When you put the key in the ignition and turn it, you anticipate hearing your car’s engine roar to life. You are disappointed when nothing happens. Your automobile was successfully opened with your key fob, but it won’t start.

You are not alone if you have gone through this difficult situation. In this article, we’ll examine the reasons your key fob unlocks but won’t start car, pinpoint typical problems, and offer simple fixes to get you back on the road as soon as possible.

What Does A Key Fob Do In Your Car?

Before we examine the intriguing situation where your key fob unlocks but won’t start car, let’s examine the key fob’s primary function. A key fob is a useful tool that has become essential to owning a car in the modern era. It performs various tasks, such as:

1. Remote Locking And Unlocking:

A key fob’s main use is to remotely lock and unlock your car. By pressing the buttons on the key fob, signals are sent to the central locking system of your automobile, enabling you to lock or unlock it without a physical key.

2. Car Alarm Control:

The alarm system on your automobile may often be activated or deactivated using buttons found on many key fobs, adding an extra degree of security.

3. Engine Starting Remotely:

On very hot or chilly days, you may pre-condition your car before you ever get inside thanks to key fobs that, in some high-tech models, can even remotely start the engine.

4. Trunk Release:

When your hands are full. Additionally, it is useful that most key fobs contain a button to quickly open your car’s trunk.

Hence, after defining what a key fob is capable of. Therefore, now let’s investigate why it might open your car but not start the engine.

Explain The Causes Of Your Key Fob Unlocks But Won’t Start Car?

Imagine how frustrating it would be to be locked out of your automobile only to discover that your key fob can only open the doors but not the windows or start the engine. Although this circumstance can be perplexing, there are a number of probable explanations and solutions to take into account. Issues unlocking key fobs are frequently caused by:

1. Dead Key Fob Battery:

Your key fob needs batteries, just like your TV remote does. The key fob battery may not be strong enough to send a signal to start the automobile if it is dead or low.

2. Faulty Key Fob:

The key fob itself may occasionally experience issues. It can be broken or not functioning properly. It could need to be replaced in such circumstances.

3. Ignition Issues:

Even if the key fob is working properly, your car won’t start if there is an issue with the ignition system, which is where the engine begins. This can be caused by problems like a worn-out key or a malfunctioning ignition switch.

4. Activation of the Anti-Theft System:

When a prospective theft attempt is detected, such as the use of an unauthorized key or tampering with the ignition, some cars contain a security mechanism that can temporarily deactivate the ignition system.

Solutions To Fix The Key Fob Unlocking But Not Starting

It can be annoying when your key fob unlocks your automobile but the engine won’t start. Be at ease, though! You can find ways to get back on the road. Let’s investigate them.

1. Check The Fob’s Battery:

Use a little screwdriver to carefully pry open the key fob. Some key fobs come with a little slot just for this use. Additionally. change the outdated battery with a fresh one. Moreover, be careful to insert it using the same procedure as when removing the old battery. Snap the two pieces back together to close the key fob.

2. Run A Test With A Spare Key Fob:

The key fob itself could occasionally be damaged or malfunction. You could require a new key fob if changing the battery doesn’t solve the problem. You’ll have to buy a new one and have a professional program it or have the maker of your automobile do it.

3. Consult A Professional:

Your automobile’s ignition system may be malfunctioning if the key fob unlocks but won’t start car. You should speak to a mechanic to remedy this. They can diagnose the issue with the ignition and repair it.

4. Check Your Car’s Manual:

Some vehicles contain an anti-theft system that, if it detects an attempted theft, can prevent the engine from starting. Check your car’s manual for information on how to reset the system if you think this is the issue. Typically, this entails the use of a backup key or a unique code.

Keep in mind that it’s crucial to handle your key fob carefully to avoid damage. Your automobile can start easily with routine maintenance and simple modifications, but if you’re ever unsure what the issue is, don’t be afraid to seek professional assistance.

What Preventive Measures Should Be Taken?

Driving without hassles requires avoiding key fob unlocking issues that result in the car not starting. Here are some easy precautions to take:

1. Battery Inspection:

Replace the key fob battery when it becomes weak after a routine inspection. This stops unexpected unlocking issues.

2. Handle Carefully:

Treat your key fob with care. Avoid damaging it by not dropping it or subjecting it to very hot or very cold temperatures.

3. Extra Key:

Keep an extra key fob handy for unexpected situations. To make sure it functions, test it occasionally.

4. Continual Upkeep:

Get your vehicle’s ignition system routinely maintained. Starting problems are less likely to occur in well-maintained vehicles.

5. Consult The Manual:

Make sure you are familiar with the owner’s manual for your car. It frequently includes instructions on how to troubleshoot typical problems or reset the anti-theft system.

6. Anti-Theft Awareness:

Avoid using fake keys or tampering with the ignition since these actions can set off the anti-theft system.

Therefore, by taking these precautions, you can lower the possibility that your key fob will unlock your car but fail to start it. Additionally, this results in a less stressful and bumpy driving experience.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, problems with the ignition, a damaged key fob, a dead key fob battery, or an anti-theft system activation are frequently to blame when a key fob unlocks but won’t start car. Replace the battery, obtain a new key fob if required, examine the ignition system, and reset the anti-theft system to fix the issue. These problems can be avoided with routine maintenance and care, ensuring your car remains dependable.