Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, access trunks and even start the engine. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.

Before you head to the dealer, try some quick fixes when your key fob stops working. These suggestions could save you money.

Keyless Entry System

Rather than needing to fumble around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply stroll up to your car, hit a button on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's a simple function that makes driving a car more enjoyable and secure. The keyless entry system, like any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or by other factors. If you have problems with yours, you can either visit the dealer or phone a locksmith.

The way a keyless entry system functions is by releasing radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the onboard computer is activated. Some systems have another transmitter located in the trunk of the car that opens when you move one foot underneath it.

Each key fob is equipped with an individual digital identification code that is issued by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob to work with the specific car's system. This typically involves turning the ignition of the vehicle multiple times in a particular sequence, and could also involve pushing or pulling various levers and buttons or taking out fuse.

Once a key fob has been programmed to the car's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code along with a function code that tells the car what to do (lock in, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be by using an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it's authorized.


There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This will require a device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it later when the system doesn't anticipate it. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on rolling code that ensures that every new transmitter signal received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.

Batteries

The most frequent reason for the car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. It's an easy and cheap fix when you have another key fob at hand to replace the old one with. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which can be bought at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.

After you've removed the battery, make sure not to disrupt any of the circuits or antennas in the case. They're likely to be holding the key fob's programming to your specific car and tampering with them can cause it to become unprogrammable (and likely to fail). If you have to move them, do so very gently, as some key fobs have fasteners that easily pop open and scatter key fob pieces across your living room.

The majority of key fobs have one hole that can be used with the screwdriver or another pry tool to open the case. However, it's a good idea use your tool to wedge it around the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an orange or apple. Don't apply too much pressure, as the fob case is often constructed of plastic and could break or crack if apply too excessive pressure to it.

Be sure to ensure that the size and type of the battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some fobs require two batteries, whereas others have just one, and the wrong battery can render your remote key fob useless.

After the new battery has been put in place, test your key fob again to see if the battery has fixed your problem. If not, you'll need to determine if your fob has an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. If this is the case, you might need to have it reset by a dealer or purchase a new key fob altogether.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob might be tiny, but they are packed with electronics. It's not surprising that they malfunction from time to time. The good news is that when your car's key button stops functioning, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.

remote car key repair of the most common reasons that a car key remote fails to function is due to dirt or dust that has become lodged between the buttons. To clear this up, carefully remove both the batteries and scrub each button using a cotton swab that has been that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be remote car key repair near me to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.

It's possible that the key fob has been damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched by a sharp object. If this is the case, using an alternative key fob to verify its function might reveal that it has been damaged and requires to be replaced.

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 following long-term use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.

If all other options fail, you can test the functionality of an extra key by trying to open and close your doors with it. If the spare key does not 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.

If your car's key fob is working but still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you may try to reprogram your computer system. But keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for a long time, it's going to need to be programmed every couple of months to ensure that it remains in sync with your vehicle. It's not an ideal situation but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.