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

Car remotes are a great convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. However, they can cease to function at uninviable times.

If you notice that your auto key repair near me fob is no longer working, try a few simple fixes before heading to the dealer. These steps may save you money.

Keyless Entry System

You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Just walk up to your vehicle, press the button on the keyfob, and the doors will unlock and the engine will start. It's a practical feature that has made the world of driving a car more enjoyable and safer. But just like any device that has a keyless entry system, the keyless entry system could break from repeated use or due to other factors. If you're having problems with yours, you may either visit the dealer or call a locksmith.

The way a keyless entry system works is by releasing radio signals and then searching for a corresponding response signal from the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are opened and the onboard computer is activated. Some systems include another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car that opens automatically when you move your foot under it.

Each mobile Key repair fob is equipped with a unique digital identification code that is issued by the manufacturer. A proprietary technical process called "programming" is used to configure the fob to work with the specific car's system. This requires turning the ignition of the car repeatedly in a certain sequence. It may also require pushing or pulling levers or buttons or even removing the fuse.

Once a key fob is programmed to the vehicle's keyless entry system it transmits its digital identification code, along with a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock or unlock the trunk or open the trunk). The car's receiver verifies that the transmitter is who it claims to be using 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 sent between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a special device to record the transmission and then transmit it again when the system isn't expecting it. The majority of keyless entry systems employ a rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that every new transmitter signal received by a vehicle has a counter that differs from the previous one.

Batteries

A dead battery is the main reason for a car remote to not function. If you have an extra key fob it's a low-cost and simple fix. Most fobs are powered with watch-style batteries, which can be bought at big-box stores or hardware stores for less than $10. You can find the steps to disassemble your key fob by searching the internet or in your vehicle's manual.

Once you've removed the battery, make sure not to damage any of the circuits or antennas in the case. They are likely holding the key fob's program to your particular car, and messing with them will make it impossible to program (and probably not work). If you have to move the key fobs, be cautious. Certain key fobs could come with fasteners that are able to be removed and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.

The case of the majority of key fobs is equipped with a single screwdriver hole. To open it, use a pry tool. To begin you must push the tool along the outside edge of the case like you would do when peeling an orange or apple. Do not apply too much pressure, as the fob case is often made of plastic and may break or crack if apply too much force to it.

Make sure you ensure that the size and type of the battery to the key fob when replacing it. Some key fobs require two batteries, whereas others have only one. Using the incorrect battery could render your remote key repair key fob useless.

If the issue persists, you can try again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If this fails then you'll be required to determine if your fob is experiencing a more complex issue that requires professional diagnosis. If this is the case, you could require it to be reset by a dealer or purchase a new key fob completely.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob may be tiny, but they are packed with electronics. It's not surprising that they occasionally fail. The good news is, when your car's key button isn't working, there's usually something you can do to fix it yourself.

The most common reason a car remote key fob repairs key stops working is because dirt or crud have trapped between the buttons. To get rid of this, carefully remove both the batteries and clean each button with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry them completely before reinstalling the batteries.

It's also possible that the key fob was harmed somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete, or perhaps scratched by a sharp object. If this is the case, you can test the function of your key fob using a different one.

Another possibility is that the door sensor for your car's lock isn't working anymore. This is a tiny metal component that's attached to the door lock button on your key fob and it's not unusual for the sensor to break following prolonged use or exposure to weather conditions. Press your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.

If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of the spare key by attempting to open and close your doors with it. If the spare key does not work, it might be necessary to locate an 24 hour locksmith that can offer automobile key repair in order to get your remote operating again.

You can change the settings on your computer if the car key button is working however it cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. But keep in mind that if you've had the same key fob for a long time, it's likely to need to be programmed each few months to ensure that it continues to work properly with your vehicle. This isn't the best option however it's much better than having to replace your remote completely.