Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote key fob isn't working and you are left frustrated. Many locksmiths and dealers in the automotive industry offer car key replacements that will restore your key to its original working condition.
Before rushing to the dealership 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 lost it or left it on the counter in the grocery store. Most of these problems are easily fixed by you, even if there's no need for an expert. You may need to change the battery or the fob could be missing the pairing information. Both of these problems are easily fixable.
Modern cars use remote controls that communicate with their vehicle using a radio frequency. When your fob is working it sends out a signal that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance and also to start the engine. The fob isn't an electronic key. It isn't possible to have it cut in a hardware store and then use it to unlock your car. The latest fobs include transponders that need to be programmed into your car to allow keyless entry function.
The most common issue with a car's key fob is that it has lost the connection with the vehicle. This could happen if the battery dies or if there's a power failure. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. While most modern cars can be reset and restore the pairing, you can also consult the manual. If resetting your fob does not solve the issue, you will need to have it reprogrammed. This usually requires visiting an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It can be expensive to purchase a replacement fob for the key and it can take a few days for a dealer to order it and program it. If your insurance policy doesn't cover the cost, it is worth contacting the maker of your car or locksmith to determine if you can have the fob replaced. You can save money and time by having a locksmith create a copy of the key on site. Locksmiths can also create you a working, new key and replace your current transponder chip. This will require that the receiver module of your vehicle is synced.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very convenient and provide a much safer method of starting your vehicle but they can be a hassle when they stop working. Thankfully, this is often something that can be fixed 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 do not have any limitations on their 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 it is used frequently. This is possible when the battery is over-forced, or exposed to moisture, which could cause corrosion.
car key fob repair near me for a car key not to function is a dead or worn-out battery. If your remote key is not working, you should check this first. This can often resolve the issue. If it is not the case, you may require replacing the battery.
Most of the time, a battery is bad due to corrosion or oxidation. It could also give acidic fumes, or leaking acid from the battery. This can cause poor connections between the battery's terminals. This can be repaired by taking the old battery out and cleaning all contacts with a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning, you can connect the connectors back in place and test your remote again.
When you're looking for the battery for dead or dying, it is also good to determine the buttons that have stopped functioning. This could be a sign that there is a serious issue with your remote, and you will need to call in a professional to repair it. A specialist can tell you if your remote is repairable or has to be replaced. They can either do this in a single visit using an onboard procedure or connect to your car's OBD2 port to program a new key fob in an efficient and safe manner.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip in your car key transmits a unique code to the car's computer, similar to how the remote control for your garage door transmits signals to its receiver to open or close it. The code informs the vehicle that it is 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 attempt to start your car, but it refuses. This could be due to various reasons but is usually an indication that you require a new key.
Another common sign that a transponder chip gone bad is when your vehicle won't lock using the key fob. In this instance, you'll need to lock your car manually. This can be very frustrating particularly if your car is already locked.
The transponder could stop working if the battery in your key fob is dead. This can happen over time, as the fob battery slowly loses its charge. Always keep an extra key fob on hand so you can replace the battery as needed.
There are a variety of other issues with the transponder chip on a car however, these are the most common. Contact an auto locksmith as fast as you can in the event that your key fob's battery is dead or if the transponder chip is malfunctioning. They can reprogram the key or replace it completely depending on the need. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to identify the issue and provide you with a reliable solution. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to a dealer.
Pairings that are corrupted or lost
The key fob in your car isn't indestructible and it's not uncommon for them to become obsolete as time passes. There are a few quick solutions you can try to make your remote work again.
It is recommended to first lock and unlock your car using an alternative key. This will ensure that the fob is not the issue, and will also rule out an issue with the mechanical locks in the case that it is found to be an electrical issue.
Batteries are typically the only thing needed to repair car key fobs. The cost of replacing the batteries isn't too expensive and you can do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It is essential to choose the appropriate type of battery. Most automotive fobs are designed to work with CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, though some may require other types. If you're unsure of the type of battery your remote is using you can look up the label or look inside. The battery will typically have a a printed or stamped number on it, or you could test it with a multimeter and determine what the voltage is.
Another option is to try a new battery. The batteries in the remote could get worn out or corrode over time. Replacing them may help restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change doesn't work, you can clean your fob, and make sure that all the buttons are functioning. The car key fobs aren't indestructible and can get dirty when they're beaten around in pockets or purses. In some instances, just taking them off and cleaning them and bending them in and out can help get your remote working again.
If you've tried every step in this list, but your car key fob still isn't working, then you likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and will also be able to provide you with a brand-new or used replacement if necessary.