Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

The car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks and even start the engine. Remotes that work with these remotes may stop working at the most inconvenient moments.

Before you visit the dealer, consider some quick fixes in case your key fob isn't working. These tips could save you money.

Keyless Entry System

You don't have to look for keys in your purse or pockets. Simply walk up to your car key repair service, press the button on the keyfob and the doors will be opened and the engine will begin. It's a useful feature that has made the experience of car driving more enjoyable and safer. The keyless entry system, as any other device, can be damaged through repeated use or other elements. If you have problems with yours, you can either visit the dealer or phone a locksmith.

Keyless entry systems work by sending radio signals and then looking for the response signal on the key fob. If the system detects the signal, the car's doors are unlocked and the computer on board is activated. Some systems have another transmitter located in the trunk of the car that can be opened when you put a foot under it.

Each key fob has an individual digital identity code that's issued by the manufacturer. A specific process of technology called "programming" is used to configure the fob with a specific car's system. This usually involves turning the ignition of the vehicle several times in a certain sequence. It could also require pulling or pushing various levers and buttons or taking out fuse.

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

A clever criminal could intercept and use the code sent between the keyfob and the vehicle. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then transmit it again when the system isn't expecting it. To combat this, most keyless entry systems rely on a method called rolling code that guarantees that each new transmitter signal received by the car 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 a spare key fob on hand to replace the old one with. The majority of fobs are powered by watch-style batteries that can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner manual should provide instructions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and swap out the battery.

Be cautious not to damage any of the circuits or antennas within the case after you have removed the battery. They're likely to be holding the key fob's program to your car's specific model and any disruption to them will render it impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you must move them, do so with care as some key fobs come with fasteners that can easily pop open and scatter key fob parts all over your living room.

The case of a majority of key fobs has a single screwdriver hole. To open it, use a tool to pry it open. To begin by putting the tool around the outer edge of the case like you would do when peeling an orange or apple. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, since the fob case is often made of plastic and may crack or break if you apply too excessive pressure to it.

When you're ready to replace the battery, make sure to match its size and style to your key fob. Certain fobs require two batteries, while others only have one, and the wrong battery can quickly make your remote key fob ineffective.

Once the new battery is in place, test your key fob for the second time to see if the battery has fixed the issue. If this fails you'll be required to determine if your fob is suffering from a more complex issue that requires a professional diagnosis. You may have to have your key fob reprogrammed by the dealer or purchase an entirely new one.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob may be small however they're packed with electronic components. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're doomed to fail from time time. If your car key button suddenly stops working, you can usually fix it yourself.

One of the most frequent reasons a car key remote car key repair (anotepad.Com) stops working is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To clear this up, carefully remove both the batteries and scrub each button by using a cotton swab, dipped in alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry them thoroughly prior to replacing the batteries.

It's possible that the key fob key repair was damaged somehow, perhaps dropped on concrete, or perhaps scratched by a sharp object. If this is the case, using another key fob to check its functionality may reveal that yours has simply been damaged and needs to be replaced.

The door lock sensor might have stopped working in your car. This sensor is a small metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended use. To activate the sensor again, simply try pressing your key button a few times without locking or unlocking your doors to reset it.

If all else fails, you can test the functionality of the spare key by attempting to unlock and lock your doors with it. If the spare key doesn't work, it may be necessary to locate an emergency locksmith who can provide auto key fob repair key repair to get your remote working again.

You can reprogram your computer if the car key fob works but doesn't lock or unlock the vehicle. But keep in mind that if you've used 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. This isn't the best option, but it's better than having to replace your remote entirely.