car Remote key fob Repair Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

The mobile car key repair remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes cease to function at uninviable times.

If you find 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 need to search for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will be opened and the engine will start. It's a convenient feature that has made the world of car driving more comfortable and safer. But just like any device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system could fail due to repeated use or due to other reasons. If you've experienced problems with yours, you have two options: Visit the dealership or call the local locksmith.

The way a keyless entry system works is by sending radio signals, and then searching for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it's triggered to unlock the car doors and also activate the onboard computer. Some systems include an additional receiver in the trunk of the car, which will open automatically when you move your foot underneath it.

Each key fob comes with a unique digital identification code that is given by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a unique process called "programming". This involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a predetermined sequence, and may also require pulling levers or buttons or removing the fuse.

Once a key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system, it transmits a digital identification code and a function code to tell the car what to (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and starts the engine.

A clever criminal could intercept and use the code transmitted between the keyfob's and the vehicle. This would require a special device to record the transmission then transmit it again in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. To prevent this from happening, most keyless entry systems rely on rolling code that guarantees that each new signal from the transmitter received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.

Batteries

A dead battery is the main reason for a car remote to not function. It's a simple and inexpensive fix when you have another key fob at in your possession to replace the previous one with. Most fobs are powered with watch-style batteries, which are available at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can find instructions to disassemble the key fob on the internet or in your car's manual.

After you've removed the battery, be careful not to disrupt any circuits or antennas inside the case. They're likely to hold the key fob's programming to your specific car and tampering with them can cause it to become impossible to program (and likely to fail). If you have to move the key fobs, take care. Some key fobs may have fasteners which can easily open and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.

The majority of key fobs have one hole that allows a screwdriver or other pry tool to pop open the case. However, it's a good idea to wedge your pry tool around the outside of the case first, as if you would peeling an apple or orange. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as the case of the key fob is typically composed of plastic and can crack or break when you apply too the force.

When you're ready to replace the battery, make sure to match the size and type to the key fob. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others require one. The wrong battery could cause your remote to become useless.

If the problem persists then you can try it again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If this doesn't work, you will be required to determine if your fob is experiencing something more complicated that requires a specialist diagnosis. It could be necessary to have the fob reset at the dealer or purchase another one.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob might appear small however they're packed with electronic components. So it's not too surprising that they're likely to fail from time time. If the button on your car's ignition suddenly stops working, you'll be able to usually fix it yourself.

One of the most common reasons that a car key remote stops working is due to dirt or dust that has accumulated between the buttons. To get rid of this remove the batteries and clean each button by using a cotton swab, coated with alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry them thoroughly prior to installing the batteries.

It's possible that your key fob repair fob was damaged in some way, such as being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the case, using an alternative key fob to check its functionality could reveal that the one you have been damaged and has to be replaced.

Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle 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 common for this sensor to break after long use or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.

If all else fails you can always test the functionality of a spare by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key doesn't work, it may be necessary to locate an emergency car key repair locksmith who can provide car key repair to get your remote working again.

If your car's key fob is working, but it's still not locking or unlocking the vehicle, you can try reprogramming your computer system. However, 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 few months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. This isn't the best option, but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.