Do Not Buy Into These "Trends" About Remote Car Key Repair

Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

Car remotes are an excellent convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. But, these remotes sometimes stop working at inconvenient times.

Before you visit the dealer, consider some quick fixes in case your key fob isn't working. These suggestions 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 begin. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and secure. But just like any device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system may fail due to repeated use or because of other reasons. If you've had issues with yours, you have two options: Go to the dealer or contact the local locksmith.

A keyless entry system operates by sending radio signals and then scouring for the response signal on a key fob. If the system recognizes the signal, it will trigger to unlock the car doors and also activate the computer onboard. Certain systems include a second transmitter on the trunk of the car which can be opened when you put one foot underneath it.

Each key fob is given an unique identification code by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to set the fob up with the car's specific system. This usually involves turning on the car's ignition multiple times in a particular sequence, and could include pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or taking out fuse.

Once a key fob has been programmed to the car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identification code along with an operation code that tells the broken car key repair what to do (lock or unlock the trunk, or open the trunk). The car's receiver confirms the identity of the transmitter through an authentication and encryption process. If it's authorized, the onboard computer unlocks the vehicle and begins the engine.

There are concerns that a criminal with a sly approach could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require the use of an instrument that records the transmission and then transmits it again when the system doesn't anticipate it to. To combat this issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use a method called rolling code that guarantees that each new transmitter signal received by the vehicle has a different counter value than the previous one.

Batteries

A dead battery is the most common reason for a car remote to not work. It's a cheap and easy fix if you have another key fob at your desk to replace the old one with. Fortunately, most fobs utilize traditional watch-style batteries which are available at big-box stores or hardware retailers for $10 or less. A quick search of the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble your key fob and swap out the battery.

Be careful not to harm any antennas or circuits in the case after you have removed your battery. They're likely to hold the key fob's program to your particular car and tampering with them can cause it to become unprogrammable (and most likely not work). If you have to move the key fobs, be careful. Some key fobs may have fasteners that can easily pop out and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.

The majority of key fobs have a single hole for an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case, however it's a good idea to use your tool to wedge it around the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is typically made of plastic, and it is prone to break or crack when you exert too excessive force.

Make sure you match the size and type of battery to your key fob when replacing it. Some fobs require two batteries, while others only have one. Using the wrong battery can make your key fob remote key repair useless.

If the issue persists then you can try it again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If this fails then you'll have to determine if the fob is suffering from a more complex issue that requires a specialist diagnosis. If this is the case, you might need to have it changed by a dealer or you may need to purchase a new mobile Key repair fob altogether.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob are small, and they're packed with delicate electronic components. It's not a surprise that they malfunction from time to time. The good news is, in the event that your car's keypad fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.

The most common reason a car remote key stops functioning is due to dirt or crud has been trapped between the buttons. To get rid of this issue, take off the batteries with care and clean each button using an abrasive that has been submerged in the rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them thoroughly prior to replacing the batteries.

It's possible that the key fob was harmed somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete or unintentionally scratched by a sharp object. If this is the case, using an alternative key fob to verify its function might reveal that it has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.

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

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

You can change the settings on your computer if your car key button is working, but it still doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. Be aware that if you've owned the same auto key fob repair fob for some time, it's going to need to be programmed every few months to ensure it continues to work properly with your vehicle. It's not the ideal situation but it's better than having to replace the remote completely.