Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the engine. These remotes can stop working at the most inconvenient of instances.

If you discover that your key fob is not working, try a few simple fixes before going to the dealership. These tips could save you money.

Keyless Entry System

You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Simply walk up to your car, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will open and the engine will start. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more relaxing and safe. But, like all devices, the keyless entry system could break from repeated use or because of other factors. If you've encountered issues with yours, there are two options: visit the dealership or contact a local locksmith.

The way that a keyless entry system functions is by sending out radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to open the doors of the vehicle and also activate the onboard computer. Some systems include a second receiver on the car's trunk that opens it automatically when you put your foot on it.


Each key fob is assigned an unique identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using a proprietary process called "programming". This usually involves turning the ignition of the car multiple times in a particular sequence. It could include pulling or pushing different buttons and levers, or the removal of fuse.

Once the key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identity code and a function code that tell the car what to (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is who it claims to be using an authentication and encryption process. The computer on board will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it is authorized.

There are fears that a clever criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This requires a special device that records the transmission and then retransmits it when the system doesn't anticipate it. To combat this issue, the majority of keyless entry systems rely on rolling code, which ensures that each new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter than the previous one.

Batteries

The most frequent cause of the car remote key fob not working is an inoperative battery. If you have an extra key fob, it's a low-cost and simple fix. Most fobs are powered by watch-style batteries, which can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. You can find instructions to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.

Be careful not to harm any circuits or antennas inside the case after you have removed the battery. If you make a mess of them, the key fob will become unprogrammable and will not work. If you must move them, do so very gently as certain key fobs have fasteners that can easily open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.

Most key fobs come with a single hole for a screwdriver or other pry tool to open the case, but it's a good idea to put your tool on the outside of the case first, as if you were peeling an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically constructed of plastic and could break or crack if apply too excessive force to it.

Make sure you match the size and style of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others require one. The wrong battery can cause your remote to become useless.

Once the new battery is in place, test your key fob for the second time to see if it solves your issue. If it doesn't work, you will be required to determine if your fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. You may have to have the key fob reprogrammed by an authorized dealer or purchase a new one.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob might be tiny, but they are packed with electronics. It's not surprising that they will fail from time-to-time. If your car key button suddenly stops working, you'll be able to typically fix it yourself.

The most frequent reason why a car remote key stops working is due to dirt or crud has been lodged between the buttons. To clear this up, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab coated with ruby alcohol. Make sure to dry them thoroughly prior to replacing the batteries.

It's also possible that the key fob was damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched by something sharp. If this is the situation, you can check your key fob's functionality by using a different one.

Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. car key repairs is a small metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It's not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or long use. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.

If nothing else works, you can test the capabilities of a spare key by unlocking and locking your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it may be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer car key repair to get your remote operating again.

If the car key button is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you may try reprogramming your computer system. If you've used the same key fob a time, it might need to be reprogrammed every couple of months to to work with your vehicle. It's not optimal, but it's better than having to buy a new remote.