Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote key fob fails to function, it can be frustrating. Fortunately, many locksmiths for automotive and dealerships offer replacement of your car key services that will get your key back to working properly.
Before you rush to the dealership or a locksmith professional take a few steps at home first.
Lost or Stolen keys
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 at home, without the assistance of a professional. You may have to replace the battery or the fob might be missing pairing information. Both of these problems can be easily fixed.
Modern cars have remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle using an exclusive radio frequency. When your fob works it sends the signal that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as being able to start the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key, so you can't simply cut it at an hardware store and use it to open your car. Modern fobs also include transponder chips that must be programmed to your specific car in order for the keyless entry to function.
The most common issue with a car key fob is that it has lost the connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery is dead or if there's an issue with the power. Although most modern cars have the option to reset the fob and restore its pairing, you should check the owner's manual for instructions. If resetting the fob doesn't solve the issue the fob will need to be reprogrammed, which typically requires a trip to an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It's costly to purchase a new fob for the key, and it may take a few days for a retailer to order it and program it. Certain insurance policies will cover the cost of a replacement however, if it's not covered, it's not a bad idea to get in touch with the car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to see about having the fob replaced. Highly recommended Internet page can often copy keys in a matter of minutes, saving you the cost and hassle of a tow truck. A locksmith can also give you a working, new key and replace your existing transponder chip. This requires that the receiver module in your vehicle be connected to the vehicle.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes can be extremely convenient, and are a safer way to start a vehicle. However, when they stop working, it can be a hassle. This is usually something that can be solved by replacing the battery on the key fob.
The batteries used in most modern remote key fobs are lithium ion coin cells. These are fairly cheap and don't have any limits in life, but they do have a limit on how long they last. When a car key remote is in frequent use the battery could wear out more quickly than the normal. This could happen if the battery is in a way that is too forceful, or exposed to moisture that could cause corrosion.
The most frequent reason for a car key to not work properly is a worn or dead battery. This should be the first thing you look into if your remote key has stopped functioning. Most of the time, this will fix the problem however, if it doesn't it's time to replace the battery.
A battery is usually damaged due to oxidation or corrosive corrosion. It could also give off acidic fumes or leaking 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 of the contacts using a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors, you can then solder them in place and test the remote.
If you're looking for a dead battery or one that is dying, you should also check whether any buttons aren't working. This can be a sign that there is a serious issue with your remote, and you'll need to get an expert to fix it. A specialist can tell you if the remote can be repairable, or if it must be replaced. They can do this either directly on the spot using an onboard procedure, or by connecting to your car's OBD2 ports to create a key fob in a short time and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip inside your car key transmits a unique code to the car's computer, just like the remote control for your garage door transmits signals to its receiver to allow it to close or open. This code tells the vehicle that it's the correct owner and blocks anyone else from starting the engine.
When you try to start your car and it doesn't start be able to start, it's an indication that your transponder has failed. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but it's often an indication that it's time for an alternative car key.
Another indication that a transponder chip has gone bad is when your car won't lock when you use the key fob. In this situation you'll need to lock your vehicle manually. This can be a hassle and unsettling, especially in the event that you have already locked out of your vehicle.
Finally, if your key fob battery is depleted, it can cause the transponder to cease to function. Over time, the fob battery will gradually lose its charge. Always keep an extra fob for your key in case you can swap the battery as needed.
There are a variety of other issues with the transponder chip of cars, but these are the most common. If your key fob battery is drained or the chip has failed it is important to get in touch with an auto locksmith in order to get the issue resolved quickly. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to identify the issue and offer a solution that is reliable. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to dealers.
Pairings that are corrupted or lost
It's not unusual for the car key fob to lose functionality in time. There are fortunately, simple fixes that may help you get your car's remote back up and running.
It is recommended to first lock and unlock the car using an alternative key. This will ensure that the fob isn't the cause of the issue, and determine if there is an issue with the mechanical locks in the event that it proves to be electrical.
Often, key fobs for cars require a battery replaced. Replacing the batteries isn't expensive, and you can usually do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It's important to use the correct type of battery However, it is important to use the correct type of battery. The majority of automotive fobs are designed to work with CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, but some may require other types. If you're unsure of the type of battery your remote uses, you can check the label or look inside. The battery is usually marked with a an engraved or stamped number on it, or you could test it with a multimeter and determine what the voltage is.
Another solution is to try a new battery. The batteries in the remote may get worn out or corrode over time. Replacing them may help restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change isn't working, try to clean out the fob and ensure that all buttons are functioning correctly. The car key fobs don't last forever and may get dirty if they're beaten around in pockets or purses. In some cases, removing the buttons and flexing them in and out of them can bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried everything on this list and the car key fob still not working it is likely that you need to have it changed by an expert. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and can also supply you with a brand-new or used replacement, if needed.