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What To Do If Your Car Remote Stops Working Randomly

Posted by Keyless Entry Remote Inc on Oct 13th 2025

Why Your Car Remote Might Fail Unexpectedly

You’re heading to your car, press the unlock button, and nothing happens. A few minutes later, it works again like nothing was wrong. This type of random remote failure is surprisingly common — and it can leave drivers feeling confused, frustrated, or even stranded.

At Keyless Entry Remote Inc., we specialize in helping drivers solve these problems affordably. Here’s what you should know if your car remote stops working randomly.


Step 1: Rule Out the Simple Fixes

Before assuming your key fob is broken, check these quick solutions:

  • Replace the Battery – A weak or dying battery is the #1 cause of intermittent fob issues. Car remote batteries often last 1–2 years, but extreme weather can shorten their lifespan.

  • Check for Interference – Electronics like Wi-Fi routers, phones, or even other remotes can sometimes block your signal. Try standing closer to the vehicle.

  • Look for Physical Damage – Dropping your fob or water exposure can loosen internal connections, causing random failures.


Step 2: Test Your Backup Key or Fob

If your car came with a second fob, try it.

  • If the backup works fine: your original fob likely has a dying battery or failing circuit board.

  • If both fail randomly: the issue could be with the vehicle’s receiver, not the remotes.


Step 3: Determine If Reprogramming Is Needed

Sometimes a fob can lose synchronization with the car. This happens more often after:

  • Changing the vehicle’s battery

  • Using aftermarket remotes

  • Electrical glitches in the car

Some vehicles allow DIY programming using the ignition and door lock sequence. For others, you’ll need a locksmith or dealer.

At Keyless Entry Remote Inc., we offer free programming instructions by make, model, and year — making it easy to figure out what you need.


Step 4: Consider a Replacement Fob

If your fob keeps failing even after replacing the battery, the internal electronics may be worn out.
Your options:

  1. Dealership – Reliable but expensive (often $300–$600 per fob).

  2. Automotive Locksmith – Convenient, but pricing varies.

  3. Buy Online (Best Value) – At Keyless Entry Remote Inc., you can buy OEM replacement key fobs for up to 80% less than dealerships.


Step 5: Don’t Wait Until You’re Locked Out

Random failures often turn into complete failures at the worst time — like when you’re away from home or in bad weather. Getting a replacement now saves you time, stress, and money later.


Conversational Q&A: What People Ask About Random Remote Failures

Q: Why does my car remote only work sometimes?
A: It’s usually a weak battery, worn-out internal connections, or interference. If it happens often, replacing the battery or fob is the best fix.

Q: Can a weak car battery cause my remote to stop working?
A: Yes. If your car’s main battery is low, the vehicle may not respond consistently to your fob.

Q: Do I need to replace the whole fob if it works randomly?
A: Not always. Start with a new battery. If problems continue, it’s often cheaper to replace the fob than risk being stranded.

Q: How can I make sure this doesn’t happen again?
A: Keep a spare key fob at home, change your fob batteries every 1–2 years, and consider using a key tracker.


Why Choose Keyless Entry Remote Inc.?

  • OEM Quality Fobs – Not cheap knockoffs

  • Big Savings – Up to 80% less than dealerships

  • Free Programming Instructions – Step-by-step by vehicle

  • Trusted Since 2011 – Over 1 million fobs sold


Call to Action

Is your car remote acting up randomly? Don’t wait until it stops working for good. Shop our OEM replacement key fobs today and get back to reliable, stress-free driving.

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