Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

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

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

Keyless Entry System

There's no 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 open and the engine will start. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car key fob repairs more enjoyable and secure. The keyless entry system, just like any other device, can be damaged by repeated use or other elements. If you've experienced problems with yours, there are two options: Go to the dealer or contact an emergency locksmith in your area.

The way that a keyless entry system operates is by releasing radio signals and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system can recognize the signal, it will trigger to open the doors of the vehicle and also activate the onboard computer. Certain systems include another transmitter located in the trunk of the car that can be opened when you put your foot beneath it.

Each key fob has an unique digital identification code, which is given by the manufacturer. A unique process of technology known as "programming" is used to configure the fob to work with the specific car's system. This involves turning on the ignition of the vehicle repeatedly in a predetermined sequence, and could require pushing or pulling buttons or levers or levers or removing the fuse.

Once a key fob is programmed to the vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code as well as a function code that tells the car what to do (lock, unlock, or open the trunk). The receiver on the car verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it is authenticated.

A savvy criminal could steal and use the code transmitted between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission then retransmit it later when the system isn't expecting it. Most keyless entry systems utilize the rolling code method to combat this. This ensures that each new transmission signal received by a car has a counter that is different from the previous one.

Batteries

The most frequent cause of car remotes key fobs not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob, it's a cheap and easy fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize traditional watch-style batteries which are sold at hardware stores or big-box retailers for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.

Be careful not to damage any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you've removed your battery. If you make a mess of them the key fob could become unprogrammable and will not work. If you must move the key fobs, take care. Certain key fobs could have fasteners which n the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries in a careful manner and scrub each button with an abrasive that has been submerged in the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling the batteries.

It's also possible that the key fob was damaged somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by something sharp. If this is the scenario, you can test the function of your key fob using another one.

The door lock sensor might have been unable to function in your vehicle. The sensor is a tiny metal piece that is connected to the key fob's door lock button. It's not uncommon for it to break due to weather conditions or extended usage. To reactivate the sensor simply press your key fob a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.

If all else fails, you could always check the functioning of a spare key by trying to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it could be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer automobile key repair in order to get your remote working again.

You can change the settings on your computer if the car key fob works but doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. Be aware that if you've had the same key fob for a period of 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 the ideal situation but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.