Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote for the key fob stops working, it can be a frustrating and annoying. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships provide replacement car keys services that can help you get your key functioning properly.
Before you rush to the dealership or a locksmith professional try a few easy steps at home first.
Keys stolen or lost
It doesn't matter if you lost it or left it on the counter in the grocery store. Luckily, most of these issues can be fixed at home, without the help of a professional. You may require replacing the battery, or the fob could be missing its pairing information -- both of which can be easily fixed.
Modern cars have remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle via a special radio frequency. When your fob works it sends an alert that allows you to lock and unlock your car remotely, as well as starting the engine. The fob isn't a key that can be used mechanically that's why you can't cut it at the hardware store and then use it to open your car. Newer fobs also have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your specific car in order for the keyless entry to function.
The most common problem with car fobs is when it loses its connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery is dead, or if there is a power failure. While most modern car models offer the option of resetting the fob to restore its pairing, you should check the owner's manual for instructions. If resetting the fob does not solve the issue, it will need to be reprogrammed, which typically requires a trip to the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
A replacement fob purchase can be costly and can take some time for the dealer to order and program it. Certain car insurance policies cover the cost of replacing a fob however if it doesn't, it's worth getting in touch with the car's manufacturer or a locksmith in your area to discuss having the fob replaced. They can often copy a key in a matter of minutes and save you the expense and hassle of a tow truck. Locksmiths can also cut a new key and replace the transponder chip. This must be synchronized to your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are convenient and provide a much safer way to start your car, they can still be frustrating when they stop working. This is usually a problem that can be solved by replacing the battery on the key fob.
The batteries that power the majority of modern remote key fobs are coin cells made of lithium ion. These are fairly cheap and don't have any limits in life, but they have a limit to how long they will last. When a car key remote is used often it is possible that the battery will be worn out faster than the normal. This could be due to being pushed or pressed hard or being exposed to moisture, which could cause corrosion.
A dead or worn out battery is the main reason for a car keys not responding correctly. If your remote key isn't working, you should check this first. In most cases, this will resolve the problem but if not then it's time to get a replacement battery.
Most of the time, a battery is bad because of oxidation or corrosion. It might also be giving off acidic fumes or leaking battery acid, which can cause weak connections between the battery's terminals. It can be fixed by removing the old battery and cleaning all of the contacts with a solution of baking soda and water. After the cleaning, you can put the connectors back to their original positions and test your remote again.
While you are checking a dying or dead battery It is also a good idea to determine whether any buttons are no longer functioning. This could be an indication of a bigger issue with your remote. It is recommended to seek out a professional to fix the problem. A specialist can tell you if the remote can be repairable or must be replaced. They can do this either immediately using an onboard procedure, or by connecting to your car's OBD2 ports to program a key fob swiftly and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similar to the way that the remote for your garage door sends an exact signal to its receiver so that it opens or closes, the chip inside your car key sends an unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. This tells the car that it is the legitimate owner and prevents anyone from running the engine without authorization.
If you attempt to start your car but it doesn't start be able to start, it's a sign that your transponder is malfunctioning. This could be due to a number of reasons, but it is usually a sign that it's time for new car keys.
Another common sign that a transponder chip has gone bad is when your car won't lock with the key fob. If this happens, you will need to manually lock your doors instead. This can be stressful and inconvenient, especially in the event that you have already locked out of your car.
car key repair near me could not function if the battery in your key fob is not functioning. This could happen over time, as the fob battery slowly loses its charge. It is always a good idea to have an additional key fob battery on hand, so that you can replace it when necessary.
There are many other issues with the transponder chip in a car however, these are the most common. If your battery for the key fob is drained or the chip is damaged 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 entirely, depending on what is needed. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to identify the issue for you and provide a reliable solution. They are usually cheaper than taking your vehicle to the dealership.
Corrupted or lost pairing
The key fob in your car isn't a piece of cake, and it's not uncommon to see them lose function as time passes. There are a few simple fixes that you can try to make your remote work again.
The first thing you should try is using an alternate 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 with the locks if it does turn out to be an electrical issue.
Batteries are usually all you need to fix car key fobs. It's not expensive to replace the batteries and you can do it yourself with no professional equipment.
It is essential to choose the appropriate type of battery. The majority of automotive remotes are designed to work with CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, but some may use other kinds. You can check the label on the remote or look inside if you are not certain. The battery will have a number printed or stamped on it. You can also use a multimeter in order to determine the voltage.
Another option is to test a different battery. Sometimes, the batteries inside the fob could wear out or become corroded over time, and replacing them may restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change isn't working, you can clean your fob, and check that all the buttons are functioning. Car key fobs can get pretty dirty from being bashed around in purses and pockets, and they aren't indestructible. In certain cases, removing the buttons and flexing them in and out of them can bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried everything listed here and your car key fob still not functioning, you'll probably need to have it reset by a professional. Grays Locksmiths will do this and can offer you a new replacement or an old one, if required.