Car Key Replacement Services
When your car key fob remote stops working it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Fortunately, many locksmiths for automotive and dealerships provide replacement car keys services that will get your key working properly.
Try a few simple things at home prior to heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Keys stolen or lost
It doesn't matter if you lost it or left it on the counter in the grocery store. The majority of these issues can be 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 pairing information. Both of these issues can be fixed easily.
Modern cars use remote control keys that communicate with the vehicle using a special radio frequency. If your fob is in use it sends the signal that allows you to lock and unlock the vehicle remotely, as in starting the engine. The fob isn't a mechanical key. You can't get it cut at a hardware store and then use it to open your vehicle. Modern fobs also include transponder chips that need to be programmed to your particular car in order for the keyless entry to function.
The most common issue with a car fob is when it loses its connection with the vehicle. This can happen if the battery fails, or it can be caused by something as simple as a power loss. Refer to the owner's manual for the correct procedure. While key repairs have the option to reset and restore the pairing, you should also consult the manual. If resetting the fob does not fix the problem the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This typically requires a trip to an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
The cost of purchasing a replacement fob could be expensive and can take several days for the dealer to order and program it. If your insurance plan does not cover the cost, it's still worth contacting the maker of your car or locksmith to determine whether you are able to have the fob replaced. You can save money and time by having a locksmith make a copy of the key on-site. Locksmiths can also cut keys and replace the existing transponder chip. The new one will require synchronization to your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes are extremely useful, and they can be a safer method to start a car. However, if they stop working, it can be very frustrating. This is usually a problem that can be fixed by replacing the battery on the key fob.
The majority of modern remote key fobs make use of lithium ion coin cell batteries. These are fairly affordable and do not have a limit in time, however they do have a limit to how long they last. When a remote car key is used frequently, the battery may be worn out faster than it would normally. This can be caused by being pushed or pressed too hard or being exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
A dead or worn out battery is the most common cause of a car key not responding properly. This should be the first thing you check if your remote key has stopped working. Often, this will fix the problem however, if it doesn't, it is time to replace the battery.
A battery is typically poor due to oxidation or corrosive corrosion. It may also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes that could result in weak connections between the battery terminals. It is possible to fix this by getting rid of the battery and cleaning the contacts with baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors, you can solder them back in place and test the remote.
If you're looking for a dead battery or one that is deteriorating, you should also check if any buttons are not working. This could be an indication of a bigger issue with your remote. It is recommended to contact an expert to fix the problem. A professional will be able to tell you whether the remote is repairable or whether it is required to be replaced completely. They can either do this on the spot by using an onboard process or connect to your car's OBD2 port to program the new key fob in a safe and fast way.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip in your car key sends an unique code to the car's computer, in the same way that the remote control for your garage door sends signals to its receiver to allow it to close or open. This code informs the vehicle that it's the right owner and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
When you try to start your car and it doesn't start, this is a sign that your transponder has failed. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but is usually a sign that it's time to purchase a new car key.
A transponder chip that has failed is a different indication. Your car will not lock if you use your key fob. In this case you'll have to lock your vehicle manually. This can be a hassle especially if your vehicle is already locked.
The transponder can not function if the battery in your key fob is dead. Over time, the battery will gradually lose charge. Always keep an extra fob for your key in case you can replace the battery as needed.
There are several other problems that can arise from a car's transponder chip but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. Contact an auto locksmith as fast as you can when your key fob's power source is dead or if the chip that controls transponder has become defective. They can either reprogram the key or replace it entirely, according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to determine the issue and provide you with an efficient solution. They are usually more cost-effective than taking your vehicle to the dealership.
Corrupted or lost pairing
Your car key fob isn't a piece of cake, and it's not uncommon to see them lose function over time. There are a few quick solutions you can attempt to get your remote working again.
You should first try to lock and unlock your vehicle using an alternative key. This will help to ensure that your fob isn't the problem and also to determine if there is a mechanical issue with the locks if it turns out to be an electrical one.
Batteries are typically all you need to fix car key fobs. It's not expensive to replace the batteries, and you can usually do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It is crucial to select the right type of battery. The majority of automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some use different types. You can look up 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 utilize a multimeter to determine what the voltage is.
Another option is to try a different battery. Sometimes, the batteries inside the fob could wear out or become corroded over time and replacing them could bring back the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change does not work, try cleaning out your fob and make sure that all buttons are functioning correctly. Car key fobs aren't indestructible and can get dirty when they are tossed around in purses and pockets. In some instances, just removing and cleaning the buttons and bending them in and out can get your remote back up and running.
If you have attempted all the steps on this list, and the car key fob doesn't work, you will likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and they can also provide you with a brand new or used replacement, if needed.