Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

The car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. However, they can stop working at inconvenient times.

Before you head to the dealer, try some quick solutions in case your key fob isn't functioning. These tips could save you money.

Keyless Entry System

Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can walk up to your car, press an icon on the key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's a convenient feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and safer. The keyless entry system, like any other device, could be damaged by repeated use or by other elements. If you've experienced problems with yours, you have two options: visit the dealer or contact a local locksmith.

Keyless entry systems operate by sending radio signals, and then scouring for a response signal from a key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the onboard computer activated. Certain systems have another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car that opens it automatically when you waggle your foot on it.

Each key fob has a unique digital identity code that's assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed with a unique process called "programming". This requires turning the ignition of the vehicle several times in a specific sequence, and may also require pulling buttons or levers, or even removing the fuse.

Once a key fob has been programmed to your car's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code, along with a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver in the car confirms that the transmitter is the person it claims to be using an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks vehicle and begins the engine.

There are concerns that a clever criminal could intercept the code that's transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require the use of a special device that records the transmission, and then retransmits it later when the system doesn't expect it. Most keyless entry systems use a rolling code method to stop this. This ensures that each new signal from a transmitter received by a vehicle has a counter that is different from the previous one.

Batteries

The most frequent reason for car remotes key fobs not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob it's a simple and inexpensive fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize regular watch-style batteries that can be purchased at big-box stores or hardware retailers for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your car's owner manual should provide instructions on how to disassemble your key fob and swap out the battery.

Be careful not to harm any of the circuits or antennas within the case once you've removed your battery. They're likely to be holding the key fob's program to your car's specific model and any disruption to them can cause it to become unprogrammable (and probably not work). If you have to move the key fobs, be careful. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily be removed and scatter key fob key repair pieces across your living space.

The case of a majority of key fobs has one screwdriver hole. To open it, you'll need to make use of a pry tool. However, before you begin by putting the tool around the outer edge of the case, just as you would peel an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is generally constructed of plastic and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you apply too much force.

Make sure you match the size and type of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others only require one. A bad battery could 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 fixes your problem. If it doesn't, you'll need to determine if your fob has a more complicated issue that requires professional diagnosis and repair. You may need to have the fob reprogrammed by the dealer or purchase a new one.

Buttons

The tiny buttons on your key fob repair fob are pretty tiny, and packed with delicate electronics. It's not a surprise that they're destined to fail from time time. If your car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can typically fix it yourself.

The most common reason a broken car key repair remote key fob repairs key stops working is because dirt or crud have lodged between the button. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries carefully and scrub each button with the help of a cotton swab which has been dipped into the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to installing the batteries.

It's also possible that the key fob was damaged by accident, such as being dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by something sharp. If this is the case using another key fob to test its functionality may reveal that yours has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.

Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. It's a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It is not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended 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 by unlocking and locking your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, you may have to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who provides repair of car keys to get your remote car Key Repair working again.

You can change the settings on your computer if your car key fob works however it doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. If you've had 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 an ideal situation however it's much better than having to replace your remote completely.