Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

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

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

Keyless Entry System

You don't need to search for keys in your pockets or purse. Simply walk up to your car, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will unlock and the engine will get started. It's a simple feature that makes driving a car key fob repair more relaxing and safe. The keyless entry system, like any other device, could be damaged by repeated use or other causes. If you are having issues with yours, you can either go to the dealer or contact a locksmith.

The way a keyless entry system operates 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, the car's doors are not locked and the onboard computer activated. Some systems have another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car, which opens it automatically when you put your foot underneath it.

Each key fob comes with an unique digital identity code that's assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using a proprietary process called "programming". This involves turning on the ignition of the car key remote repair near me repeatedly in a predetermined sequence, and could require pulling buttons or levers or levers or even removing the fuse.

Once the key fob has been programmed into the keyless system of your car, it transmits a digital identity code as well as a function-code to instruct the car on what to do (lock key repair near me, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver on the car verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. The onboard computer will unlock the vehicle and start the engine if it's authorized.

There are fears that a skilled criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This requires a special device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it later when the system doesn't expect it. Most keyless entry systems utilize rolling codes to stop this. This ensures that every new signal from a transmitter received by a car key fob repair service has a counter value that differs from the previous one.

Batteries

The most common 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. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. A quick search of the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.

Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you've removed the battery. If you make a mess of them the key fob will be unprogrammable and won't function. If you have to move the key fobs, be cautious. Some key fobs may come with fasteners that are able to open and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.

The case of a majority of key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, you can use a tool to pry it open. However, before you begin, wedge the pry tool around the outer edge of the case as you would do when peeling an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, as the case of the fob is usually made of plastic and may break or crack if apply too much pressure to it.

Be sure to match the size and type of battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs have two batteries while others only need one. The wrong battery can cause your remote to become useless.

If the problem persists it is possible to try again using your fob's key after installing the new battery. If this fails then you'll be required to determine if your fob is experiencing something more complicated that requires a specialist diagnosis. You may need to have your key fob reprogrammed at a dealer or buy a new one.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob might appear small however they're packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they will occasionally fail. The good news is, if your car key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.

One of the most common reasons a car key remote doesn't work is because dirt or grit has accumulated between the buttons. To remove this obstruction take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab that has been dipped in rubbing alcohol. Make sure to dry them completely before reinstalling batteries.

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

Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle has stopped working. It's a tiny, metal part that's connected to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break after long use or exposure to weather conditions. To reactivate the sensor, simply try pressing your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.

If nothing else works, you can always test the functionality of a spare key by opening and locking your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, you may have to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who can repair your car keys to get your remote car key repair working again.

If your car's key fob does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, try to re-programme your computer system. However, keep in mind that if you've used the same key fob for a period of time, it's going to need to be programmed every few months to ensure it is working properly with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation however it's much better than having to replace your remote entirely.