Car Key Replacement Services
When your car key fob remote stops working it can be a frustrating and annoying. Most locksmiths and dealers in the automotive industry offer replacement keys for car keys that can bring your key back to its original functioning condition.
Try a few things at home prior to heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Keys stolen or lost
Whether you dropped it in the car, put it on the counter when you went to the supermarket, or you simply lost it, not having your key fob can be an enormous problem. The majority of these issues can be easily solved by you even if there's no need for a professional. You may need to replace the battery or the fob may have lost its pairing information, both are easily repaired.
Modern cars use remote control keys that communicate with the vehicle using a special radio frequency. If your fob is operating it transmits a signal that allows you to lock and unlock your car from a distance, as well as start the engine. The fob isn't an electronic key. It isn't possible to get it cut at a hardware store and then use it to unlock your vehicle. Modern fobs also include transponder chips that need to 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 can happen if the battery fails, or it can be caused by something as minor as a power outage. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Although most modern vehicles can be reset and re-pair the pairing, you can also refer to the manual. If the reset of your fob fails to fix the issue, you'll need to have it reprogrammed. This usually requires the assistance of an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It's expensive to purchase a new key fob, and it may take a few days for a dealer to purchase it and program it. If your insurance policy doesn't cover the cost, it is still worth contacting the manufacturer of your vehicle or locksmith to determine if you can have the fob replaced. Locksmiths can usually duplicate keys immediately which will save you the cost and hassle of the tow truck. A locksmith can also cut you new keys and replace the existing transponder chip. This must be synchronized with your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very convenient and provide a much safer way to start your car however, they can be a hassle when they stop functioning. Fortunately, this is usually something that can be fixed by replacing the battery in the key fob.
The batteries that power the majority of modern remote key fobs are coin cells made of lithium ion. These are fairly inexpensive and are not limited in life, but they have a limit to the length of time they can last. When a remote car key is in frequent use the battery could wear out more quickly than it would normally. This could happen if the battery is pushed or in a way that is too forceful or exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
The most common reason for a car key not to function properly is a dead or worn-out battery. If your remote key is not functioning, you should test this first. Often, this will fix the problem but if not, it is time to replace the battery.
The majority of the time, a battery is bad due to corrosion or oxidation. It may also give acidic fumes, or leaking acid from the battery, which could cause poor connections between the terminals of the battery. You can fix this by getting rid of the battery and cleaning the contacts with a baking soda solution and water. After cleaning how to repair car key fob , you can solder them back in place and test the remote.
If you're looking for a dead battery or one that is deteriorating it is also important to check if any buttons are not functioning. This could be an indication of a more serious problem with your remote. You will need to contact an expert to fix the problem. A professional will be able to inform you whether the remote can be repaired or if it requires replacement entirely. They can either do this immediately by using an onboard process or connect to your car's OBD2 port to program a new key fob a safe and fast way.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similar to the way that the remote for your garage door transmits a specific signal to its receptor so that it opens or closes the door, the chip in your car key transmits an unique code to the computer system in your car. 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 vehicle and it won't, this is a sign that your transponder is not working. This could be due to many reasons, but it is generally an indication that you require a new key.
Another indication that a transponder chip has gone bad is when your car won't lock with the key fob. In this situation you'll have to lock your car manually. This can be a hassle especially if your vehicle is locked.
The transponder could cease to function if the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. This will happen over time because the fob battery slowly loses its charge. Always keep an extra key fob in your pocket so you can replace the battery if required.
There are several other problems that can arise from a car's transponder chip but the ones listed above are the most common. If your battery for the key fob is drained or the chip has gone bad it is important to call an auto locksmith to get the issue resolved quickly. They can reprogram the key, or replace it completely, depending on what's needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to identify the issue and offer an efficient solution. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to a dealer.
Pairings that are lost or damaged
It's not uncommon to see your car's key fob to lose function over time. There are a few easy solutions you can try to make your remote work again.
The first thing you must do is to try using an alternate key to lock and unlock 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 turns out to be electrical.
Often, car key fobs simply need to have their battery replaced. The cost of replacing the batteries isn't too expensive, and you can usually do it yourself with no professional equipment.
It is important to use the right type of battery. The majority of automotive remotes are designed to work with CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, though some may use other kinds. You can check the label on your remote, or look inside if you are not sure. The battery will typically have a the number printed or stamped on it, or utilize a multimeter to determine what the voltage is.
A different set of batteries can also be utilized. Sometimes, the batteries in a fob can be worn out or corroded over time and replacing them could restore the functionality of the remote.
If replacing the battery doesn't work, you can try cleaning out the fob and ensure that all buttons are functioning correctly. Car key fobs can become pretty dirty from being thrown around in purses and pockets, and they aren't indestructible. In some instances, just taking the buttons off and cleaning them and bending them in and out can help get your remote working again.
If you've tried all the steps on this list, but your car key fob still isn't working, then you likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and they will also be able to provide you with a brand-new or a used replacement if you need it.