Car Key Replacement Services
When your car remote key fob stops working, it can be frustrating. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships provide replacement car keys services that can get your key back to functioning properly.
Try a few simple things at home prior to heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Lost or Stolen keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped it off in the car, left it on the counter when you ran to the store for groceries, or just plain lost it, not having your key fob is a big problem. Most of these problems are easily solved by you even if you're not a professional. You may need to change the battery, or the fob may be missing the pairing information. Both of these problems can be fixed easily.
Modern cars are equipped with remote controls that connect to their vehicle using a radio frequency. If your fob is in use it transmits an alert that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as well as starting the engine. The fob isn't a mechanical key. You cannot get it cut at a hardware store and then use it to open your car. repair car key fob fobs also have transponder chips that need to be programmed for your specific vehicle to allow keyless entry to work.
The most common problem with a car key fob is that it has lost the connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery dies or it is caused by something as minor as a power failure. While most modern car models offer the option of resetting the fob and restore its pairing, you should refer to the owner's manual to find instructions. If resetting the fob does not fix the problem, it will need to be reprogrammed. This typically will require a trip to a dealership or 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 insurance policies cover the cost of a replacement however, if it's not covered, it's still worth getting in touch with your car's manufacturer or a locksmith in your area to see about replacing the fob. You can save money and time by having a locksmith make copies of the key in-person. A locksmith can also cut new keys and replace the existing transponder chip. The new one will need to be synced with your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are convenient and offer a safer way to start your car but they can be frustrating when they stop working. Thankfully, this is often something that can be solved by replacing the battery on the key fob.
Most modern remote key fobs use lithium coin cell batteries that are ion. These are fairly inexpensive and are not limited in life, but they do have a limit on how long they will last. The battery of a remote key could get worn out faster than the normal if used frequently. This could be due to being pushed or pressed too hard or being exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
A dead or worn out battery is the most common cause of a car key not responding properly. If your remote key isn't working, you should check this first. This can often resolve the problem. If not, you may have to replace the battery.
A battery is usually damaged because of oxidation or corrosion. It could also be producing acidic fumes, which can result in weak connections between the battery terminals. You can fix this by getting rid of the battery and cleaning the contacts using a baking soda solution and water. After the cleaning, you can put the connectors back in place and then test the remote again.
When you're checking for a dead or dying battery it is also important to check the buttons that have stopped functioning. This could be an indication of a more serious problem with your remote. You will need to contact an expert to repair the issue. A professional can tell you whether the remote is repairable or if it is required to be replaced completely. It can be done on the spot with an onboard procedure or by connecting to your vehicle's OBD2 ports to program a key fob quickly and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote to your garage door transmits an exact signal to its receptor so that it opens and closes the door, the chip in your car key sends a unique code to your vehicle's computer system. This informs the car that it is the correct owner and prevents anyone from starting the engine without authorization.
When you try to start your car and it doesn't start begin, it's an indication that your transponder is not working. This could be for a variety of reasons but is typically an indication that you need a new key.
A transponder chip which has failed is another sign. Your car will not lock if you use your key fob. In this situation you'll have to lock your vehicle manually. This can be a hassle and unsettling, especially when you're locked out of your vehicle.
In the end, if the battery in your key fob is dead, that can also cause the transponder to cease functioning. As time passes, the fob battery will slowly lose its charge. Always keep an extra fob for your key in case you can recharge the battery as needed.
There are several other problems that can occur with the transponder chip in your car, but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. If the battery for your key fob is dead or the chip has gone bad it is important to call an auto locksmith to get the issue fixed as quickly as possible. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on the requirements. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to identify the issue and provide you with an efficient solution. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to a dealer.
Corrupted or Lost Pairing
It's not uncommon for your car remote to lose its function over time. There are fortunately, easy fixes to get your car's remote back functioning.
The first thing you should do is to try using an additional key to lock and unlock your vehicle. This will allow you to be sure that your fob isn't at fault and will also help to rule out a mechanical problem in the locks if it turns out to be an electrical issue.
Often, key fobs for cars require a battery replaced. It's not too expensive to replace the batteries, and you don't need any special equipment.
It is essential to choose the appropriate type of battery. The majority of automotive fobs accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some may utilize different types. If you're unsure of the kind of battery your remote is using, you can check the label or look 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.
Another easy fix is to test a different battery. The batteries in the remote could be damaged or worn out over time. Replacing them may restore its functionality.
If changing the battery does not work, try cleaning out your key fob and check all the buttons are functioning properly. Key fobs for cars can get quite dirty due to being thrown around in purses and pockets and aren't completely indestructible. In some instances, just removing and cleaning the buttons and flexing them in and out can help get your remote back up and running.
If you've tried everything listed here and your car key fob is still not working, you'll probably need to have it changed by a professional. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and they will also be able to provide you with a new or a used replacement if you need it.