Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote key fob stops working it can be extremely frustrating and inconvenient. The majority of locksmiths and dealers in the automotive industry provide replacement keys for cars that can bring your key back to its original functioning condition.
Try a few easy things at home before heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Lost or Stolen Keys
It doesn't matter if lost it or put it on the counter at the grocery store. Fortunately, most of these issues can be solved on your own, even without the assistance of a professional. You may have to replace the battery or the fob could be missing pairing information. Both of these problems can be fixed easily.
Modern cars use remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle by using a special radio frequency. When the fob is in use it sends out the signal that lets you lock and unlock the car from a distance and also start the engine. The fob is not a mechanical key. You can't cut it in a hardware shop and use it to open your car. The latest fobs include transponders that must be programmed in your car to make the keyless entry work.
The most common issue with a car fob is when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery dies or if there's an electrical failure. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions. While most modern cars can be reset and restore the pairing, you must also refer to the manual. If reseting your fob doesn't solve the issue, you'll need to have it changed to a different program. This typically requires a visit to an automotive locksmith or dealer.
It can be expensive to purchase a new 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 a replacement, but if yours doesn't it's not a bad idea to get in touch with the car's manufacturer or a locksmith in your area to discuss replacing the fob. They are often able to duplicate a key immediately, saving you the cost and hassle of towing a truck. A locksmith can also cut a new key and also replace the transponder chip, which will need to be synced to your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very convenient and provide a much more secure method to start your car but they can be frustrating 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 use lithium coin cell batteries with ion. They are fairly inexpensive and don't have any limitations in terms of life. However, they do have a limit on their lifespan. When a car key remote is used frequently, the battery may be worn out faster than it would normally. This could happen if the battery is pushed or in a way that is too forceful, or exposed to moisture that can cause corrosion.
A worn out or dead battery is the most frequent reason for a car keys not responding correctly. This is the first thing to check to determine if your remote has stopped working. This can often resolve the issue. If not, you might require replacing the battery.
Most of the time batteries fail due to corrosion or oxidation. It could also give acidic fumes, or leaking acid from the battery, which could result in poor connections between the battery's terminals. You can fix this by removing the battery and cleaning the contacts using a baking soda solution and water. After cleaning the connectors you can then solder them in place and test the remote.
While you are checking the battery for dead or dying, it is also good to see the buttons that have stopped functioning. This could be a sign of a bigger issue with your remote. You will need to contact an expert for repair. A specialist can tell you if the remote is repairable, or if it must be replaced. You can either repair it in a single visit with an onboard procedure or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob in a safe and fast method.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote for your garage door sends an exact signal to its receptor, so that it opens or closes, the chip inside the car key transmits an unique code to the vehicle's computer system. The code informs the vehicle that it's the correct owner and blocks anyone else from starting the engine.
One of the first signs that your transponder chip has been damaged is when you try to start your car, but it fails to start. This could be due to a number of reasons, but it is usually a sign that it's time to purchase an alternative car key.
A transponder chip that has failed is a different sign. Your car will not lock with your key fob. In this situation you'll have to lock your vehicle manually. This can be stressful and unaffordable, particularly when you're locked out of your vehicle.
The transponder may not function if the battery in your key fob is not functioning. This will happen over time as the fob battery gradually loses its charge. Always keep an extra key fob on hand so you can replace the battery if required.
There are key car repair that can arise from the transponder chip in your car however the ones mentioned above are the most frequent. If your key fob battery is dead or the chip is damaged it is important to contact an auto locksmith to get the issue resolved quickly. They can reprogram the key or replace it completely depending on the need. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to pinpoint the issue for you and provide a reliable solution. They will usually be more affordable than taking your car to the dealership.
Pairings that are lost or damaged
Your car key fob isn't indestructible and it's not uncommon for them to become obsolete in time. There are a few quick solutions you can attempt to get your remote working again.
The first thing you must do is try using an additional key to lock and unlock your vehicle. This will help to ensure that your fob isn't the issue and will also help to rule out a mechanical problem with the locks, if it does turn out to be an electrical one.
Batteries are typically all that's needed to fix car key fobs. It's not too expensive to replace the batteries, and you don't need any special equipment.
It is crucial to select the appropriate type of battery. The majority of automotive remotes are designed to accept CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, though some may use other types. You can verify the label on your remote, or examine the inside if you're not sure. The battery will have a specific number printed or stamped on it. You can also make use of a multimeter to determine the voltage.
A different pair of batteries can also be used. Sometimes, the batteries in a fob can become corroded or worn out over time and replacing them could make the remote functional again. remote.
If replacing the battery does not work, try cleaning out your key fob and check all of the buttons are working properly. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being bashed around in purses and pockets and aren't completely indestructible. In some instances, taking out the buttons and flexing in and out of them can bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried all the suggestions on this list but your car key fob is still not working it is likely that you require it to be changed by an expert. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and can also supply you with a new or used replacement, if needed.