Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote for the key fob stops working, it can be extremely frustrating and inconvenient. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer car key replacement services that can help you get your key back to functioning correctly.
Before heading to the dealer or a professional locksmith, try a few simple steps at home first.
Keys stolen or lost
It doesn't matter if lost it or left it on the counter at the grocery store. Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved on your own, even without the help of a professional. You may require a replacement battery or the fob might have lost its pairing information -- both of which can be easily fixed.
Modern cars have remote controls that connect to their vehicle via radio frequency. If your fob is in use it sends a signal allowing you to lock and unlock the vehicle remotely, as being able to start the engine. The fob isn't a key that can be used mechanically, so you can't simply have it cut at an hardware store and use it to open your car. The latest fobs also come with a transponder chip that must be programmed to your specific vehicle in order for keyless entry to function.
The most frequent issue with a car key fob is that it has lost its pairing with the vehicle. This could happen if the battery is dead or if there's an issue with the power. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. While most modern cars have the option to reset and re-establish the pairing, you can also consult the manual. If resetting the fob doesn't solve the issue it must be reprogrammed. This usually requires a trip to the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
It can be expensive to purchase a new fob for your key, and it may take several days for a dealer to order it and program it. Some car insurance policies will cover the cost of a replacement however, if it's not covered, it's worth getting in touch with the car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to inquire about replacing the fob. Locksmiths can usually duplicate keys on the spot and save you the expense and hassle of a tow truck. A locksmith can also give you a working, new key and also replace your old transponder chip. This will require that the receiver module of your vehicle is synced.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes can be very convenient, and they can be a safer method to start a car. However, if they stop working, they can be very frustrating. This issue can be resolved by simply replacing the battery in the key fob.
The batteries that power the majority of modern remote key fobs are lithium ion coin cells. These are fairly affordable and do not have a limit in time, however they do have a limit to how long they last. When a remote car key is used often it is possible that the battery will be worn out faster than normal. repair car key is possible when the battery is pressed too hard or exposed to moisture, which could cause corrosion.
A dead or worn out battery is the main reason for a car keys not responding properly. This should be the first thing you check if your remote key has stopped working. This is usually the solution to the problem. If it is not the case, you may need to replace the battery.
A battery is usually poor due to oxidation or corrosion. It may also be producing acidic fumes. This can result in weak connections between the battery terminals. This can be fixed by removing the old battery and cleaning all of the contacts with a solution made of baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors you can solder them back in place and test the remote.
When you're checking for a dead or dying battery It is also a good idea to check if any buttons have stopped functioning. This could be a sign of a bigger issue with your remote. You'll need to seek out a professional to repair the issue. A specialist will be able to tell you if your remote is repairable or whether it needs to be replaced entirely. They can do this either directly on the spot using an onboard procedure or by connecting to your car's OBD2 ports to create a key fob in a short time and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote to your garage door sends an exact signal to its receptor so that it opens and closes and closes, the chip in your car key sends a unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. The code informs the vehicle that it is the owner who is legitimate and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
If you attempt to start your car but it doesn't start be able to start, it's an indication that your transponder is malfunctioning. This could be due to a variety of reasons but is usually an indication that you need an entirely new key.
Another indication that a transponder chip gone bad is when your car won't lock with the key fob. If this happens, you will need to manually lock your doors instead. This can be frustrating particularly if your car is locked.
If the battery of your key fob is depleted, it can cause the transponder stop working. Over time, the fob battery will gradually lose charge. It is always recommended to keep an extra battery for the key fob on hand, so that you can replace it if required.
There are several other problems that can occur with a car's transponder chip however the ones mentioned above are the most common. If the battery for your key fob is drained or the chip has gone bad it is essential to contact an auto locksmith to get the problem fixed quickly. They can reprogram the key, or replace it entirely depending on the need. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to pinpoint the issue and offer a solution that is reliable. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to dealers.
Pairings that are lost or damaged
It's not uncommon for the car remote to lose its functionality over time. There are a few simple fixes that you can try to get your remote back to working.
You should first try to lock and unlock your vehicle with an alternative key. This will confirm that the fob is not the problem, and also determine if there is an issue with the mechanical locks in the event that it is found to be an electrical issue.
Often, key fobs for cars require a batteries replaced. It's not expensive to replace the batteries and you can do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It is important to use the appropriate type of battery. Most automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some might use different types. If you're not certain of the type of battery your remote is using it is possible to check the label or examine the inside of. The battery will have a number printed or stamped on it. You can also utilize a multimeter to determine the voltage.
Another option is to try a different pair of batteries. Sometimes, the batteries inside the fob may be worn out or corroded over time and replacement could bring back the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change doesn't work, you can clean your fob, and check that all buttons are functioning. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being thrown around in pockets and purses, and they aren't indestructible. In some cases, simply taking the buttons off and cleaning them and flexing them back and out will get your remote working again.
If you have tried every step on this list, and your car key fob doesn't work, you will likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths will do this and provide you with an entirely new replacement or an old one if needed.