Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote for the key fob stops working, it can be extremely frustrating and inconvenient. Fortunately, many locksmiths for automotive and dealerships offer replacement of your car key services that can help you get your key back to working properly.
Before heading to the dealer or a locksmith professional try a few easy steps at home first.
Keys that were stolen or lost are not found
It doesn't matter if you lost it or left it on the counter in the grocery store. Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be fixed on your own, even without the help of an expert. You might require a replacement battery or the fob may be missing its pairing information -- both are easily repaired.
Modern cars use remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle by using an exclusive radio frequency. When the fob is in use it transmits the signal that allows you to lock and unlock your car from a distance and also to start the engine. The fob isn't a key that can be used mechanically, so you can't simply have it cut at an hardware store and use it to unlock your car. The latest fobs include transponders that need to be programmed in your vehicle to make keyless entry work.
The most common problem with car fobs is when it fails to connect with the vehicle. key car repair could happen when the battery fails, or it can be caused by something as minor as a power loss. While most modern car models have the option to reset the fob and restore its pairing, refer to the owner's manual to find instructions. If resetting the fob doesn't fix the problem the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This typically will require a trip at the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
It's expensive to purchase a new fob for your key, and it may take a few days for a retailer to order it and program it. If your insurance plan does not cover the cost, it is worthwhile to contact your car's maker or a locksmith to find out if you can have the fob replaced. You can save money and time by having a locksmith create copies of the key on-site. A locksmith can also give you a new, working key and replace your current transponder chip. This requires that the receiver module in your vehicle be synced.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes can be extremely useful, and they can be a safer method to start a vehicle. However, if they stop working they can be very frustrating. This is usually a problem that can be resolved by simply replacing the battery on the key fob.
Most modern remote key fobs use lithium coin cell batteries with ion. They are relatively inexpensive and don't have any limitations in terms of life. However, they do have a limit on their time. The battery of a remote key may get worn out faster than the normal if frequently used. This can happen when the battery is pushed or pressed too hard or exposed to moisture, which could cause corrosion.
A dead or worn out battery is the main reason for a car key not responding correctly. This is the first thing you check to determine if your remote has stopped working. In most cases, this will resolve the issue however, if it doesn't it's time to purchase a new battery.
A battery will usually be poor due to oxidation or corrosive corrosion. It may also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes, which can lead to poor connections between battery terminals. This can be fixed by taking the old battery out and cleaning all contacts using a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors, you can then solder them in place and test the remote.
While you are checking a dying or dead battery it is also important to check if any buttons have stopped functioning. This could be a sign that there is a serious problem with your remote and you will need to contact an expert to fix it. A specialist can inform you if your remote is repairable or needs to be replaced. They can do this either immediately using an onboard procedure, or by connecting to your vehicle's OBD2 ports to program a key fob quickly and safely.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip inside your car key transmits a unique code to your vehicle's computer, similar to how the remote control for your garage door sends signals to its receiver to open or close it. The code informs the vehicle that it's the right owner and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
One of the first indications that the chip in your transponder 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 often an indication that it's time to get a new car key.
A transponder chip that has failed is another common sign. Your car won't lock using your key fob. In this case you'll have to lock your car manually. This can be frustrating and unaffordable, particularly when you're locked out of your car.
The transponder can not function if the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. As time passes, the fob battery will slowly lose its charge. It is always a good idea to have an extra key fob battery on hand, so that you can replace it as needed.
There are several other problems that could arise with the chip of a car's transponder however the ones mentioned above are the most frequent. If your battery for the key fob is dead or the chip has gone bad it is important to get in touch with an auto locksmith in order 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 determine the issue for you and provide a reliable solution. Usually they are cheaper than going to an auto dealer.
Pairings that are corrupted or lost
It's not uncommon to see your car's key fob to lose functionality 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 help ensure that your fob isn't at fault and also to eliminate a mechanical issue with the locks if it does turn out to be an electrical issue.
key fob repairs are often all that's needed to fix car key fobs. Replacing the batteries isn't expensive, and you can usually do it yourself with no professional equipment.
It is important to use the correct type of battery. The majority of automotive remotes are designed to accept CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, although some may require other kinds. You can verify the label on your remote or look inside if you are not certain. The battery is usually marked with a a printed or stamped number on it, or you could use a multimeter to see what the voltage is.
Another easy fix is to test a different pair of batteries. Sometimes, the batteries in the fob could wear out or become corroded over time, and replacing them may bring back the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change doesn't work you can clean your fob, and make sure that all buttons are working. The car key fobs are not indestructible and can get dirty when they're used in pockets or purses. In some cases, removing the buttons and then 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 not working it is likely that you need to have it changed by an expert. Grays Locksmiths will do this and provide you with a new replacement or a reconditioned one if you need it.