Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote key fob isn't working, it can be frustrating. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer car key replacement services that can help you get your key back to functioning properly.
Try a few simple things at home prior to heading to the dealer or locksmith.
Keys stolen or lost
It doesn't matter if lost it or left it on the counter at the grocery store. Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved on your own, even without the help of a professional. You may need to change the battery or the fob might be missing pairing information. Both of these issues can be easily fixed.
Modern cars are equipped with remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle by using an exclusive radio frequency. When the fob is working, it sends out the signal that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as being able to start the engine. The fob is not a mechanical key. You can't have it cut in a hardware shop and use it to unlock your vehicle. Newer fobs also have transponder chips that must be programmed for your specific vehicle to allow keyless entry to function.
The most frequent issue with a car fob is when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can occur if the battery dies, or if there is an issue with the power. Consult your owner's guide for specific instructions. While the majority of modern cars offer the option of reset and re-establish the pairing, you must also consult the manual. If resetting the fob does not solve the issue the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This typically will require a trip at an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It can be expensive to purchase a replacement key fob and it can take several days for a dealer to purchase it and program it. Certain car insurance policies cover the cost of a replacement, but if yours doesn't it's still worth getting in touch with your car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to see about getting the fob replaced. You can save money and time by having a locksmith create a copy of the key in-person. Locksmiths can also cut you a new key and replace the transponder chip. The new one will require synchronization with your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes can be extremely convenient, and are a safe way to start a vehicle. However, if they stop working, it can be frustrating. This issue can be solved by replacing the battery in the key fob.
Most modern remote key fobs make use of lithium coin cell batteries that are ion. They are relatively inexpensive and have no limitations in terms of their lifespan. However, they do have a limit on their life span. The battery of a remote key can wear out faster than normal if used frequently. This can be caused by being pushed or pressed hard, or by being exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
A worn out or dead battery is the most common reason for a car keys not responding correctly. If your remote key is not working, you must check this first. This is usually the solution to the issue. If not, you might require replacing the battery.
A battery is usually bad due to oxidation or corrosion. It might also be giving acidic fumes or leaks of acid from the battery. This can cause weak connections between the terminals of the battery. This can be repaired by getting rid of the old battery and cleaning all contacts using a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors you can resolder them in place and test the remote.
While you are checking the battery for dead or dying, it is also good to check whether any buttons are no longer functioning. This could be a sign that there is a bigger issue with your remote, and you will need to call in a professional to repair it. A specialist can inform you if the remote is repairable or has to be replaced. You can either repair it in a single visit with an onboard procedure or connect to your car's OBD2 port to program a new key fob an efficient and safe manner.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip in your car keys 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. This code informs the vehicle that it is the owner who is legitimate and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
If you attempt to start your car and it doesn't start be able to start, it's a sign that your transponder is not working. This could be due to a variety of reasons but is usually an indication that you need a new key.
A transponder chip that has failed is another common sign. Your car won't lock with your key fob. In this situation, you'll need to lock your vehicle manually. This can be a hassle and inconvenient, especially in the event that you have already locked out of your vehicle.
Finally, if G28 Car Keys in your key fob is drained, it could cause the transponder cease functioning. Over time, the fob battery will slowly lose its charge. It is always a good idea to have an extra battery for the key fob on hand, so that you can replace it if required.
There are a variety of other issues that could arise with a car's transponder chip, but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. Contact an auto locksmith as quickly as you can in the event that your key fob's battery is dead or the chip that controls transponder has become faulty. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on what is needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to determine the issue and provide you with an efficient solution. Usually they are cheaper than going to dealers.
Corrupted or Lost Pairing
The key fob in your car isn't indestructible, and it's not uncommon to see them lose function as time passes. However, there are easy fixes you can try to help you get your car's remote functioning.
The first thing you need to do is to try using an additional key to lock and unlock your car. This will allow you to be sure that your fob isn't the issue and will also help to determine if there is a mechanical issue with the locks, if it does turn out to be an electrical issue.
Batteries are typically the only thing needed to repair 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 accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some might utilize different types of batteries. You can check the label on the remote or take a look inside if not certain. The battery will usually have an engraved or stamped number on it, or you could use a multimeter to see what the voltage is.
A different pair of batteries can also be utilized. Sometimes, the batteries inside the fob may wear out or become corroded over time and replacing them could bring back the functionality of the remote.
If changing the battery doesn't work, you can try to clean out your key fob and check that all buttons are functioning correctly. Car key fobs can become pretty dirty from being thrown around in pockets and purses and aren't completely indestructible. In certain cases, removing the buttons and then flexing in and out of them could bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried all the steps on this list, and your car key fob still isn't working, you'll likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths will do this and provide you with the new one or a used one, if required.