Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote key fob fails to function it can be a frustrating. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer car key replacement services that will get your key functioning correctly.
Try a few easy things at home prior to heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Lost or Stolen Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost it or left it on the counter at the grocery store. Most of these issues can be easily solved by you even if you're not a professional. You may need to change the battery or the fob could not have the pairing information. Both of these issues can be easily fixed.
Modern cars have remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle by using the radio frequency of a specific. If your fob is in use it sends an alert that allows you to lock and unlock your car remotely, as well as starting the engine. The fob isn't a mechanical key and therefore you cannot cut it at an hardware store and use it to unlock your car. The newer fobs have transponders that need to be programmed into your vehicle to make keyless entry work.
The most common issue with car fobs is when it fails to connect with the vehicle. This could happen if the battery goes dead, or if there is an issue with the power. Consult your owner's guide for instructions. Although most modern vehicles have the option to reset and restore the pairing, you must also refer to the manual. If reseting the fob doesn't solve the issue, it will need to be reprogrammed. This usually requires a trip to the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
It's expensive to purchase a new fob for the key and it could take a while for a dealer to purchase it and program it. Certain car insurance policies cover the cost of replacing a fob however if it doesn't, it's still worth getting in touch with your car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to inquire about having the fob replaced. They can often copy a key immediately which will save you the cost and hassle of the tow truck. Locksmiths can also cut you keys and replace the existing transponder chip, which will require synchronization with the receiver module of your vehicle.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes are extremely convenient, and are a safer way to start a vehicle. However, if they stop working, they can be a hassle. This issue can be fixed by replacing the battery in the key fob.
The batteries used in most modern remote key fobs are coin cells made of lithium ion. They are relatively inexpensive and are not limited in their lifespan, but they have a limit to how long they last. The battery of a remote key could get worn out faster than the normal if frequently used. This could be due to being pushed or pressed hard, or by being exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
The most frequent reason for the car key to not function is a worn-out or dead battery. If your remote key is not functioning, you should test this first. Often, this will fix the issue however, if it doesn't then it's time to replace the battery.
A battery will usually be poor due to oxidation or corrosive corrosion. It could also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes, which can cause poor connections between battery terminals. This can be fixed by removing the old battery and cleaning all contacts using a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning, you can solder the connectors back in place and test the remote once more.
When you're checking for a dead or dying battery, it is also good to check the buttons that have stopped functioning. car remote key repair could be a sign of a more serious problem with your remote. You'll need to consult a professional to fix the problem. A specialist will be able to inform you if your remote is repairable or whether it needs to be replaced completely. They can do this immediately using an onboard procedure, or by connecting to your car's OBD2 ports to program a key fob swiftly and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip in your car keys transmits a unique code to the car's computer, similar to how the remote control for your garage door transmits signals to its receiver to shut or open it. This code informs the vehicle that it's the owner who is legitimate and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
One of the first indications that your transponder chip has been damaged is when you attempt to start your car, but it refuses. This could be for various reasons but is usually an indication that you require a new key.
A transponder chip that has failed is a different indication. Your car will not lock with your key fob. If this happens, you will be required to manually lock your doors instead. This can be very frustrating particularly if your car is already locked.
In the end, if your key fob battery is depleted, it can also cause the transponder to cease to function. As time passes, the fob battery will gradually lose its charge. It is always recommended to keep an extra key fob battery in the case that you can replace it when needed.
There are several other problems that can occur with a car's transponder chip, but the ones listed above are the most common. Contact an auto locksmith as soon as possible if your key fob's battery is dead or the transponder chip is faulty. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on the requirements. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to determine the issue and offer a reliable solution. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to dealers.
Corrupted or Lost Pairing
It's not uncommon for the car remote to lose its function as time passes. There are a few easy solutions you can try to get your remote working again.
Try to lock and unlock the car with an extra key. This will confirm that the fob isn't the issue, and will also rule out a mechanical issue with the locks in the event that it is found to be an electrical issue.
Often, key fobs for cars require a battery replaced. It's not costly to replace the batteries and you don't need any special equipment.
It is essential to select the right type of battery, however. Most automotive fobs are made to accept CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, although some may require other types. You can check the label on your remote or examine the inside if you're not certain. The battery will typically have a an engraved or stamped number on it, or use a multimeter to see what the voltage is.
A different set of batteries could also be utilized. The batteries inside the remote could get worn out or corrode over time. Removing them could help restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change doesn't work, you can try cleaning your fob and make sure all the buttons are functioning correctly. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being thrown around in pockets and purses, and they aren't indestructible. In some cases, removing the buttons and flexing them in and out of them can bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried everything listed here and your car key fob still not working it is likely that you require it to be reprogrammed by an expert. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and they can also provide you with a new or a used replacement if you need it.