Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote fob fails to function and you are left frustrated. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer car key replacement services that can help you get your key working properly.
Before heading to the dealer or a locksmith professional take a few steps at home first.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
Whether you dropped it in the car, put it on the counter when you went to the supermarket, or simply lost it, not having your key fob can be a big problem. Fortunately, most of these problems can be resolved at home, without the assistance of a professional. You may require a replacement battery or the fob might not have the pairing information, both are easily fixed.
Modern cars use remote controls that connect to their vehicle via radio frequency. When your fob works it transmits the signal that allows you to lock and unlock the car remotely, as well as starting the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key, so you can't simply have it cut at a hardware store and used to open your car. The latest fobs also come with transponder chips that need to be programmed to your specific vehicle in order for keyless entry to work.
The most common issue with a car's key fob is that it has lost its connection with the vehicle. This could happen when the battery fails or it is caused by something as simple as a power loss. Although most modern cars can reset the fob and restore its pairing, you should refer to the owner's manual to find instructions. If reseting the fob doesn't fix the problem, it will need to be reprogrammed. This typically requires a trip to a dealership or automotive locksmith.
Purchasing a replacement fob can be expensive, and it takes some time for the dealer to get it and program it. If your insurance policy doesn't cover the cost, it's worth contacting your car's maker or a locksmith to find out if you can have the fob replaced. They can often copy a key in a matter of minutes which will save you the cost and hassle of the tow truck. A locksmith can also make you a working, new key and replace your existing transponder chip. This requires that the receiver module in your vehicle be synced.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very practical and offer a more secure method to start your vehicle, they can still be a hassle when they stop functioning. Luckily, this is something that can be repaired by replacing the battery on the key fob.
Most modern remote key fobs make use of lithium coin cell batteries that are ion. They are relatively inexpensive and have no limitations in terms of life. However they do have a limited time. When a car key remote is used often it is possible that the battery will get worn out more quickly than normal. This can be caused by being pushed or pressed too hard or exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
The most common reason for a car key not to function is a dead or worn-out battery. This is the first thing to check whether your remote key has stopped functioning. This is usually the solution to the problem. If not, you may require replacing the battery.
The majority of the time, a battery is bad due to corrosion or oxidation. It may also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes that could result in weak connections between the battery terminals. It can be fixed by removing the old battery and cleaning all contacts with a solution made of baking soda and water. After the cleaning, you can solder the connectors back to their original positions and then test the remote again.
If you're looking for a dead battery or one that is failing, you should also check whether any buttons are not working. This could be a sign of a larger issue with your remote. You'll need to consult an expert to fix the problem. A professional will be able to inform you if the remote is repairable or if it needs to be replaced completely. They can do this immediately with an onboard procedure or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob in a safe and fast manner.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote for your garage door transmits an exact signal to its receptor so that it can open or close, the chip inside your car key transmits an unique code to the computer system in your car. This informs the car that it is the legitimate owner and stops anyone from running the engine without authorization.
If you attempt to start your vehicle and it doesn't start begin, it's an indication that your transponder has failed. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but it is usually a sign that it's time to get an alternative car key.
A transponder chip which has failed is another sign. Your car won't lock with your key fob. If key fob repair happens, you will have to lock manually your doors instead. This can be frustrating especially if your vehicle is locked.
If the battery of your key fob is depleted, it can cause the transponder stop working. This will happen over time as the fob battery gradually loses its charge. Always keep a spare key fob on hand so you can swap the battery when required.
There are a variety of other issues that can occur with a car's transponder chip, but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. If your key fob battery is drained or the chip is damaged it is important to call an auto locksmith to get the issue resolved quickly. They can reprogram the key, or replace it completely according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to pinpoint the issue and provide a reliable solution. They will usually be more affordable than taking your vehicle to the dealership.
Pairings that are corrupted or lost
The key fob in your car isn't impervious to damage, and it's not uncommon to see them lose function in time. There are a few easy fixes that you can try to get your remote working again.
Try to lock and unlock the car using an alternative key. This will help to ensure that your fob isn't at fault and also to rule out a mechanical problem with the locks if it does turn out to be an electrical issue.
Often, car key fobs require a battery replaced. Replacing the batteries isn't expensive and you can do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It is important to use the right type of battery. The majority of automotive fobs accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some might use different types. If you're unsure of the kind of battery your remote is using you can look up the label or go inside. The battery will have a number written or printed on it. You can also utilize a multimeter to determine the voltage.
Another solution is to test a different pair of batteries. The batteries in the remote may wear out or corrode over time. Replacing them can help restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change doesn't work you can clean your fob and ensure that all the buttons are working. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being thrown around in purses and pockets They aren't impervious to damage. In some instances, just taking the buttons off and cleaning them and bending them in and out can get your remote back up and running.
If you've tried everything on this list and your car key fob not working then you'll likely need to have it reset by an expert. Grays Locksmiths will do this and will provide you with either the new one or a reconditioned one, if required.