Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote fob isn't working it can be a frustrating. Most locksmiths and dealers for automotive offer replacement keys for car keys that can restore your key to its original functioning condition.
Try a few simple things at home prior to heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Lost or Stolen keys
It doesn't matter if lost it or left it on the counter at the grocery store. Most of these issues can be easily fixed by you, even if you're not a professional. It is possible that you need to change the battery, or the fob may be missing pairing information. Both of these problems can be fixed easily.
Modern cars are equipped with remote control keys which communicate with the vehicle using an exclusive radio frequency. When remote key fob repair transmits the signal that allows you to lock and unlock the vehicle remotely, as well as starting the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key, so you can't simply get it cut at an hardware store and use it to open your car. Newer fobs also have a transponder chip that must be programmed to your specific vehicle to allow keyless entry to function.
The most frequent problem with a car key fob is that it has lost the connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery dies or it is caused by something as minor as a power failure. While most modern car models can reset the fob and restore its pairing, you should consult your owner's manual for instructions. If resetting the fob does not fix the problem it must be reprogrammed. This typically will require a trip at the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
It can be expensive to purchase a replacement fob for the key, and it may take a few days for a dealer to order it and program it. If your insurance policy doesn't cover the cost, it is still worth contacting your car's maker or locksmith to determine whether you can get the fob replaced. Locksmiths can usually duplicate a key immediately which will save you the cost and hassle of towing a truck. Locksmiths can also cut new keys and replace the existing transponder chip, which will require synchronization with your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
Modern car remotes are extremely useful, and they can be a safer method to start a vehicle. However, if they stop working, it can be very frustrating. This issue can be fixed by replacing the battery on the key fob.
The batteries used in most modern remote key fobs are lithium ion coin cells. They are relatively inexpensive and have no limitations on their life. However, they do have a limit on their lifespan. When remote key fob repair is used frequently the battery could wear out more quickly than normal. This could happen if the battery is pushed or in a way that is too forceful or exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
The most frequent reason for the car key to not work properly is a worn-out or dead battery. If your remote key isn't working, you must check this first. Often, this will fix the issue, but if not, it is time to get a replacement battery.
Most of the time, the battery is damaged because of oxidation or corrosion. It could also give acidic fumes or leaks of battery acid, which can result in poor connections between the battery's terminals. It is possible to fix this by getting rid of the battery and cleaning the contacts using a baking soda solution and water. After cleaning, you can solder the connectors back into place and then test the remote again.
If you're looking for a dead battery or one that is failing and you need to determine if any buttons are not functioning. This could indicate that there is a more serious issue with your remote and you'll need to contact an expert to fix it. A specialist can tell you if the remote is repairable, or if it needs to be replaced. They can either do this 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 secure way.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote for your garage door sends a specific signal to its receiver so that it can open or close, the chip inside the car key transmits an unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. This code tells the vehicle that it is the owner who is legitimate and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
If you attempt to start your vehicle and it won't, this is a sign that your transponder is malfunctioning. This could be due to a number of reasons, but it is often an indication that it's time for new car keys.
Another common sign that a transponder chip has 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 a hassle, especially if your car is already locked.
The transponder could cease to function if the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. This could happen over time, as the fob battery slowly loses its charge. Always keep an extra fob for your key in case you can replace the battery as required.
There are many other issues with the transponder chip of automobiles however, these are the most frequent. Contact an auto locksmith as soon as possible when your key fob's power source is dead or if the transponder chip is malfunctioning. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely depending on what is needed. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to determine the issue for you and offer a solution that is reliable. Usually, they are more affordable than going to a dealer.
Lost or Corrupted Pairing
It's not uncommon for your car remote to lose its functionality as time passes. There are a few quick fixes that you can try to get your remote back to working.
Try to lock and unlock your vehicle using an alternative key. This will help to ensure that your fob isn't at fault and also to rule out a mechanical problem with the locks, if it does turn out to be an electrical one.
Often, key fobs for cars require a batteries replaced. The cost of replacing the batteries isn't too expensive and you can do it yourself without any professional equipment.
It's important to use the correct type of battery, however. The majority of automotive fobs are designed to work with CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, although some may require other types. If you're not sure what kind of battery your remote uses it is possible to check the label or look inside. The battery will usually have a printed or stamped number on it, or utilize a multimeter to determine what the voltage is.
A different pair of batteries may also be used. The batteries inside the remote may get worn out or corrode over time. Replacing them can help restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change isn't working, you can clean your fob and ensure that all buttons are functioning. The car key fobs don't last forever and can get dirty when they're beaten around in purses or pockets. In some instances, just removing and cleaning the buttons and bending them in and out will get your remote working again.
If you've tried everything listed here and your car key fob still not working, you'll probably need to have it reset by a professional. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and they will also be able to provide you with a brand new or used replacement, if needed.