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 will get your key functioning correctly.
Before you rush to the dealership or a locksmith professional, try a few simple steps at home first.
Keys stolen or lost
It doesn't matter if you dropped it off in the car, left it on the counter while you went into the grocery store or simply lost it, not having your key fob can be an enormous inconvenience. Most of these problems are easily solved by you even if you don't have a professional. You might require replacing the battery, or the fob could not have the pairing information, both are easily fixed.
Modern cars use remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle via an exclusive radio frequency. When the fob is working it sends an alert that allows you to lock and unlock the vehicle remotely, as well in starting the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key and therefore you cannot have it cut at a hardware store and used to open your car. The newer fobs have a transponder that must be programmed into your car to allow keyless entry function.
The most common problem with a car fob is when it fails to connect with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery dies or is triggered by something as simple as a power failure. While most modern car models can reset the fob to restore its pairing, consult your owner's manual for instructions. If reseting the fob doesn't solve the issue the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This usually will require a trip to an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It's costly to purchase a replacement fob for your key and it can take several days for a retailer to order it and program it. If broken key repair does not cover the cost, it's still worth contacting the manufacturer of your vehicle or a locksmith to find out whether you can get the fob replaced. Locksmiths can usually duplicate a key in a matter of minutes, saving you the cost and hassle of towing a truck. A locksmith can also make you a brand new, functional key and replace your existing transponder chip. This will require that the receiver module in your vehicle is connected to the 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. Luckily, this is something that can be repaired by replacing the battery on the key fob.
The batteries that are used in the majority of modern remote key fobs are coin cells made of lithium ion. They are relatively inexpensive and do not have any limitations in terms of their lifespan. However they do have a limit on their lifespan. The battery of a remote key could get worn out faster than the normal if it is used frequently. This could be due to being pushed or pressed too hard, or by being exposed to moisture, which could cause corrosion.
A worn out or dead battery is the most common cause of a car key not working properly. This is the first thing you look into to determine if your remote has stopped working. Most of the time, this will fix the issue but if not, it is time to purchase a new battery.
Most of the time, batteries fail due to corrosion or oxidation. It could also be leaking acid or emitting acidic fumes, which can cause poor connections between battery terminals. This can be fixed by taking the old battery out and cleaning all of the contacts using a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning, you can connect the connectors back into place and then test the remote again.
While you are checking the battery for dead or dying It is also a good idea to determine whether any buttons are no longer functioning. This could be a sign of a bigger issue with your remote. It is recommended to seek out an expert to fix the problem. A specialist can tell you whether the remote is repairable or if it is required to be replaced entirely. You can either repair it in a single visit by using an onboard process or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob in a safe and fast method.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similar to how the remote to your garage door transmits a specific signal to its receiver so that it opens or closes, the chip inside your car key transmits a unique code to your computer system of your vehicle. More Bonuses informs the vehicle that it's the right owner and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
When you try to start your vehicle and it won't be able to start, it's a sign that your transponder has failed. This could be due to many reasons, but is typically an indication that you require an entirely new key.
A transponder chip that is not working is another sign. Your car won't lock using your key fob. In this instance you'll need to lock your car manually. This can be a hassle and inconvenient, especially when you're locked out of your vehicle.
The transponder can not function when the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. Over time, the battery will gradually lose its charge. Always keep a spare fob for your key in case you can replace the battery when required.
There are a variety of other issues with the transponder chip in cars however, these are the most frequent. If the battery for your key fob is drained or the chip has gone bad, it's important to contact an auto locksmith to have the issue resolved quickly. They can either reprogram the key or replace it entirely, according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to determine the issue and offer a solution that is reliable. Usually, they are more affordable than taking your car to dealers.
Lost or Corrupted Pairing
Your car key fob isn't indestructible, and it's not uncommon for them to become obsolete over time. There are a few easy fixes that you can try to get your remote working again.
You should first try to lock and unlock your car with a spare key. This will ensure that the fob is not the issue, and will also determine if there is any mechanical issues with the locks in the event that it turns out to be electrical.
Often, car key fobs require a battery replaced. It's not too expensive to replace the batteries, and you don't require any special equipment.
It is crucial to select the appropriate type of battery. The majority of automotive fobs are designed to accept CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, but certain models may use different types. You can verify the label on the remote or look inside if you are not certain. The battery will typically have a an engraved or stamped number on it, or you could use a multimeter to see what the voltage is.
Another option is to test a different pair of batteries. The batteries in the remote could wear out or corrode over time. Replacing them may restore its functionality.
If the battery change doesn't work, you can clean the fob, and check that all buttons are working. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being bashed around in pockets and purses, and they aren't indestructible. In some instances, taking out the buttons and flexing in and out of them could bring your remote back to life.
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 a professional. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and they will also be able to provide you with a new or used replacement if necessary.