Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote key fob isn't working and you are left frustrated. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships provide replacement car keys services that can get your key back to working properly.
Try a few things at home before heading to the dealer or locksmith.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
If you dropped it in the car, put it on the counter when you went to the supermarket, or simply lost it, not having your key fob is an problem. The majority of these issues can be easily fixable by you, even if you're not a professional. You might need to replace the battery or the fob may have lost its pairing details -- both of which can be easily fixed.
Modern cars have remote control keys that communicate with the vehicle via an exclusive radio frequency. If your fob is in use, it sends out the signal that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as well as starting the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key and therefore you cannot have it cut at the hardware store and then use it to open your car. The latest fobs also come with transponder chips that need to be programmed for your specific vehicle in order for keyless entry to work.
The most common problem 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 minor as a power outage. 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 reseting the fob doesn't solve the issue the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This typically will require a trip at a dealership or automotive locksmith.
Purchasing a replacement fob can be costly and can take several days for the dealer to purchase and program it. If your insurance policy doesn't cover the cost, it's worth contacting the maker of your car or locksmith to determine whether you are able to have the fob replaced. Locksmiths can usually duplicate a key on the spot which will save you the cost and hassle of the tow truck. A locksmith can also make you a working, new key and also replace your old transponder chip. This will require that the receiver module in your vehicle be synced.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes are extremely useful, and they are a safer way to start a vehicle. However, when they stop working, they can be very frustrating. Fortunately, this is usually something that can be repaired by replacing the battery in the key fob.
Most modern remote key fobs use lithium coin cell batteries with ion. These are fairly cheap and don't have any limits in time, however they do have a limit to how long they last. The battery of a remote key may be more worn than normal if frequently used. www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ is possible when the battery is pressed too hard, or exposed to moisture which can cause corrosion.
A worn or dead battery is the most common reason for a car keys not working properly. If your remote key isn't working, you must check this first. This can often resolve the issue. If it is not the case, you may have to replace the battery.
A battery will usually be bad due to oxidation or corrosive corrosion. It may also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes that could lead to poor connections between the battery's terminals. It is possible to fix this by removing the battery and cleaning the contacts with a baking soda solution 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 and you need to determine whether any buttons are not functioning. This can be a sign that there is a bigger problem with your remote and you'll have to contact an expert to fix it. A professional can tell you if your remote is repairable, or has to be replaced. You can either repair it in a single visit using an onboard procedure or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program the new key fob in a safe and fast manner.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip in your car key sends an unique code to the car's computer, similar to how the remote control for your garage door transmits signals to its receiver to shut or open it. This informs the car that it is the correct owner and prevents anyone from starting the engine without authorization.
One of the first signs that your transponder chip is gone bad is when you attempt to start your car, but it refuses. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but it is often an indication that it's time to get a new car key.
Another common sign that a transponder chip gone bad is when your car won't lock using the key fob. If this happens, you will be required to manually lock your doors instead. This can be very frustrating especially if your vehicle is locked.
If the battery of your key fob is depleted, it can cause the transponder to cease functioning. This can happen over time, as the fob battery slowly loses its charge. It is always an ideal idea to keep an additional key fob battery in the case that you can replace it if required.
There are several other problems that could arise with the transponder chip in your car however the ones mentioned above are the most frequent. If your key fob battery is dead, or if the chip has failed it is important to contact an auto locksmith in order to get the problem fixed quickly. They can reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on what's needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to identify the issue and provide you with an efficient solution. They will usually be more affordable than taking your car to a dealership.
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. There are a few simple fixes that you can try to make your remote work again.
The first thing you must do is try using an additional key to unlock and lock 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 one.
Batteries are usually all that's needed to fix car key fobs. It's not expensive to replace the batteries, and you don't require any special equipment.
It is crucial to choose the right type of battery, however. Most automotive fobs are made to accept CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, but some may use other types. If you're not certain of the kind of battery your remote uses, you can check the label or look inside. The battery will typically have a a printed or stamped number on it, or you can test it with a multimeter and determine what the voltage is.
A different set of batteries may also be used. Sometimes, the batteries in the fob could be worn out or corroded over time and replacement could bring back 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 working. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being thrown around in pockets and purses and aren't completely indestructible. In some instances, taking out the buttons and flexing in and out of them can bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried all the steps on this list, but your car key fob still isn't working, then you probably need it reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and can also supply you with a brand-new or used replacement, if needed.