Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's key fob remote stops working it can be a frustrating and inconvenient. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer car key replacement services that can help you get your key back to working properly.
Before heading to the dealer or a locksmith professional try a few easy steps at home first.
Keys stolen or lost
It doesn't matter if lost it or left it on the counter in the grocery store. Most of these issues can be easily fixed by you, even if you don't have a professional. You may need to change the battery or the fob could not have the pairing information. Both of these problems can be fixed easily.
Modern cars are equipped with remote controls that connect to their vehicle via a radio frequency. When your fob is working it transmits an alert that lets you lock and unlock the car from a distance and also to start the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key and therefore you cannot get it cut at an hardware store and use it to open your car. Modern fobs also include a transponder chip that must be programmed to your particular vehicle in order for keyless entry to work.
The most common problem with a car fob is when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This could happen if the battery is dead, or if there is a power failure. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. While most modern cars have the option to reset and re-pair the pairing, you must also refer to the manual. If resetting your fob does not solve the issue, you'll need it changed to a different program. This typically requires visiting an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It can be expensive to purchase a replacement fob for the key and it could take a few days for a dealer to purchase it and program it. Certain car insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a fob, but if yours doesn't it's not a bad idea to get in touch with the car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to inquire about having the fob replaced. They can often copy keys immediately and save you the expense and hassle of towing a truck. A locksmith can also cut a new key and also replace the transponder chip, which will require synchronization with the receiver module of your vehicle.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are convenient and offer a safer method of starting your vehicle but they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. Luckily, this is something that can be fixed by replacing the battery on the key fob.
Most modern remote key fobs use lithium coin cell batteries with ion. These are fairly cheap and don't have any limits in time, however they do have a limit on how long they last. When a remote car key is used frequently, the battery may get worn out more quickly than the normal. This can happen when the battery is pushed or in a way that is too forceful, or exposed to moisture that can cause corrosion.
The most frequent reason for a car key not to work properly is a worn 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 it's time to get a replacement battery.
Most of the time, batteries fail due to corrosion or oxidation. It could also be leaking acid or emitting acidic fumes, which can lead to poor connections between the battery's terminals. It is possible to fix this by removing the battery and cleaning the contacts using baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors, you can solder them back in place and test the remote.
If key fob repair are looking for a dead battery or one that is deteriorating, you should also check whether any buttons are not working. This could be a sign that there is a serious problem with your remote and you'll need to call in an expert to fix it. A professional can tell you if the remote is repairable or needs to be replaced. key repairs can either repair it immediately with an onboard procedure or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob a safe and fast way.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similar to the way that the remote to your garage door transmits an exact signal to its receptor, so that it opens or closes the door, the chip in the car key transmits a unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. The code informs the vehicle that it's the owner who is legitimate and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
When you try to start your car and it won't begin, it's a sign that your transponder has failed. This could be due to a variety of reasons but it is generally an indication that you need an entirely new key.
A transponder chip that has failed is another sign. Your car won't lock with your key fob. If this happens, you'll need to manually lock your doors instead. This can be a hassle and unsettling, especially when you're locked out of your car.
In the end, if the battery in your key fob is drained, it could also cause the transponder to stop working. This can happen over time, as the fob battery gradually loses its charge. Always keep an extra key fob in your pocket so you can recharge the battery if required.
There are many other issues that can arise from a car's transponder chip, but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. Contact an auto locksmith as soon as you can in the event that your key fob's battery is dead or the chip that controls transponder has become malfunctioning. They can reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on what's needed. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to pinpoint the issue for you and provide a reliable solution. Usually, they are more affordable than taking your car to dealers.
Lost or Corrupted Pairing
Your car key fob isn't indestructible and it's not unusual for them to lose functionality over time. There are a few easy solutions you can try to make your remote work again.
The first thing you should do is try using a backup key to unlock and lock your vehicle. This will ensure that the fob isn't the problem, and also determine if there is a mechanical issue with the locks in the event it is found to be an electrical issue.
Batteries are often all you need to fix car key fobs. The cost of replacing the batteries isn't too expensive and you can do it yourself, without professional equipment.
It is essential to select the right type of battery However. Most automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some may utilize different types. If you're not sure what kind of battery your remote runs you can look up the label or go inside. The battery is usually marked with a the number printed or stamped on it, or utilize a multimeter to determine what the voltage is.
A different pair of batteries can also be utilized. The batteries inside the remote may get worn out or corrode over time. Replacing them can bring back its functionality.
If the battery change doesn't work, you can clean the fob and ensure that all buttons are working. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being bashed around in pockets and purses and aren't completely indestructible. In some instances, taking out the buttons and flexing in and out of them could bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried every step in this list, but your car key fob still isn't working, then you likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths will do this and provide you with the new one or a used one if needed.