Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote fob isn't working, it can be frustrating. Most locksmiths and dealers for automotive offer replacement keys for car keys that can restore your key to its original working condition.
Before rushing to the dealership or a locksmith professional take a few steps at home first.
Keys stolen or lost
Whether you dropped it in the car, left it on the counter when you ran into the grocery store or simply lost it, not having your key fob can be a big inconvenience. Most of these problems are easily fixed by you, even if you don't have a professional. You might require a replacement battery, or the fob could have lost its pairing information, both are easily fixed.
Modern cars use remote control keys that communicate with the vehicle via a special radio frequency. If your fob is operating, it sends the signal 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 that's why you can't cut it at an hardware store and use it to open your car. The newer fobs have transponders that must be programmed for your vehicle to make keyless entry work.
The most frequent problem with a car key fob is that it has lost the connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery is dead, or if there is an electrical failure. Although most modern cars have the option to reset the fob and re-establish its pairing, check the owner's manual for instructions. If resetting the fob doesn't solve the issue the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This typically will require a trip at an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It's costly to purchase a replacement key fob, and it may take several days for a dealer to purchase it and program it. Some car insurance policies cover the cost of replacing a fob, but if yours doesn't it's still worth getting in touch with your vehicle's manufacturer or a locksmith in your area to discuss having the fob replaced. You can save time and money by having a locksmith make an exact copy of the key on site. A locksmith can also cut you a new key and replace the transponder chip. This must be synchronized with the receiver module of your vehicle.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes can be extremely convenient, and are a safer way to start a vehicle. However, if they stop working they can be a hassle. Fortunately, this is usually something that can be repaired by replacing the battery inside the key fob.
The batteries that are used in the majority of modern remote key fobs are lithium ion coin cells. They are relatively affordable and do not have a limit in their lifespan, but they do have a limit to how long they last. The battery of a remote key may be more worn than normal if frequently used. This is possible when the battery is in a way that is too forceful, or exposed to moisture that could cause corrosion.
The most common reason for the car key to not work properly is a dead or worn-out battery. This is the first thing you look into to determine if your remote has stopped working. Often, this will fix the issue but if not, it is time to purchase a new battery.
A battery will usually be damaged due to oxidation or corrosion. It could also give acidic fumes or leaks of acid from the battery, which could result in poor connections between the battery's terminals. This can be fixed by taking the old battery out and cleaning all contacts using a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors, you can solder them back in place and test the remote.
When you're looking for the battery for dead or dying, it is also good to determine whether any buttons are no longer functioning. This could be a sign that there is a bigger issue with your remote and you'll have to contact a professional to repair it. A professional will be able to inform you if your remote can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced entirely. You can either repair it on the spot by using an onboard process or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob an efficient and secure method.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similar to the way that the remote for your garage door sends an exact signal to its receiver so that it can open or close and closes, the chip in your car key transmits a unique code to your vehicle's computer system. The car is informed that it is the right owner and stops anyone from beginning the engine without authorization.
One of the first indications that your transponder chip has gone bad is when you attempt to start your car and it refuses. This could be due to various reasons but is usually an indication that you require a new key.
Another indication that a transponder chip gone bad is when your car won't lock using the key fob. If this happens, you'll be required to manually lock your doors instead. This can be a hassle particularly if your car is already locked.
The transponder could stop working if the battery in your key fob is dead. As time passes, the fob battery will gradually lose charge. It is always an ideal idea to keep an extra battery for the key fob in your possession, so that you can replace it if required.
There are a variety of other issues that can arise from the transponder chip in your car but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. If your battery for the key fob is dead or the chip has gone bad it is important to get in touch with an auto locksmith in order to get the issue resolved quickly. car key fob repairs can either reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on what is needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to identify the issue and provide you with an efficient solution. Usually, they are more affordable than going to a dealer.
Corrupted or lost pairing
It's not uncommon to see your car's remote to lose its function as time passes. Luckily, there are some simple fixes to get your car's remote functioning.
The first thing you need to do is try using an additional key to unlock and lock your vehicle. This will confirm that the fob isn't the issue, and will also rule out a mechanical issue with the locks in the case that it proves to be electrical.
Batteries are typically all you need to fix car key fobs. Replacing the batteries isn't expensive, and you can usually do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It is important to use the right type of battery. Most automotive fobs are made to accept CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, but some may require other types. You can check the label on the remote or look inside if you are not certain. The battery will usually have the number printed or stamped on it, or you could utilize a multimeter to determine what the voltage is.
Another easy fix is to test a different battery. Sometimes, the batteries inside the fob could become corroded or worn out over time and replacing them could make the remote functional again. remote.
If the battery change doesn't work, you can clean your fob, and check that all buttons are working. The car key fobs are not indestructible and may become dirty if they are tossed around in purses and pockets. In certain cases, taking them off and cleaning them and flexing them in and out can get your remote back up and running.
If you've tried everything listed here and your car key fob still not functioning then you'll likely require it to be changed by an expert. Grays Locksmiths will do this and will provide you with the new one or a used one if needed.