How To Identify The Remote Car Key Repair That's Right For You
Car Key Replacement Services
When your car key fob remote stops working it can be a frustrating and annoying. The majority of locksmiths and dealers in the automotive industry offer car key replacements that will restore your key to its original functioning condition.
Try a few simple things at home before you rush to the store or locksmith.
Keys that were stolen or lost are not found
It doesn't matter if you lost it or left it on the counter at the grocery store. Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved by yourself, even without the assistance of a professional. You may require a replacement battery or the fob may be missing its pairing details -- both are easily fixed.
Modern cars are equipped with remote controls that connect to their vehicle using a radio frequency. If your fob is in use it sends a signal allowing you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as being able to start the engine. The fob isn't a key that can be used mechanically, so you can't simply have it cut at an hardware store and use it to unlock your car. Modern fobs also include transponder chips that need to be programmed to your specific car in order for the keyless entry to function.
The most common problem with a car fob is when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This could happen when the battery fails or is caused by something as simple as a power loss. While most modern car models have the option to reset the fob to restore its pairing, check the owner's manual for instructions. If resetting your fob does not solve the issue, then you will need to have it reset. This usually requires visiting an automotive locksmith or dealer.
A replacement fob purchase can be expensive and can take some time for the dealer to order and program it. Certain insurance policies cover the cost of a replacement, but if yours doesn't it's still worth getting in touch with your vehicle's manufacturer or a local locksmith to see about replacing the fob. You can save money and time by having a locksmith make an exact copy of the key on-site. Locksmiths can also create you a working, new key and replace your existing transponder chip. This will require that the receiver module in your vehicle is connected to the vehicle.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very convenient and provide a much safer way to start your car but they can be frustrating when they stop functioning. 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. These are fairly cheap and don't have any limits in their lifespan, but they do have a limit on the length of time they can last. The battery of a remote key can wear out faster than normal if frequently used. This can happen when the battery is pushed or pressed too hard or exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
A worn out or dead battery is the most frequent reason for a car key not responding properly. This should be the first thing you check to determine if your remote has stopped functioning. This is usually the solution to the problem. If not, you might have to replace the battery.
Most of the time a battery is bad due to corrosion or oxidation. It could also be leaking acid or emitting acidic fumes. This can result in weak connections between the battery's terminals. This can be fixed by taking the battery off and cleaning the contacts with baking soda and water. After cleaning the connectors you can resolder them in place and test the remote.
While you are checking a dying or dead battery it is also important to see the buttons that have stopped functioning. key fob repair near me could indicate that there is a more serious issue with your remote, and you'll need to call in a professional to repair it. A professional will be able to tell you whether the remote is repairable or whether it is required to be replaced entirely. It can be done immediately using an onboard procedure, or by connecting to your car's OBD2 ports to program a key fob quickly and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote for your garage door transmits an exact signal to its receiver so that it opens and closes and closes, the chip in your car key sends a unique code to your computer system in your car. This informs the car that it is the right owner and stops anyone from running the engine without authorization.
If you attempt to start your car but it won't begin, it's a sign that your transponder is not working. This could be due to a number of reasons, but it is usually a sign that it's time for an alternative car key.
Another sign that a transponder chip has gone bad is when your car won't lock when you use the key fob. If this happens, you'll need to manually lock your doors instead. This can be frustrating especially if your vehicle is already locked.
The transponder can stop working if the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. This could happen over time, as the fob battery gradually loses its charge. It is always a good idea to have an extra battery for the key fob in the case that you can replace it when required.
There are a variety of other issues with the transponder chip of automobiles, but these are the most common. If your battery for the key fob is dead or the chip has gone bad it is important to get in touch with an auto locksmith to get the issue resolved quickly. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely, depending on what is needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to identify the issue and offer a reliable solution. Usually they are cheaper than going to an auto dealer.
Pairings that are corrupted or lost
The key fob in your car isn't impervious to damage and it's not uncommon to see them lose function in time. There are a few easy solutions you can try to make your remote work again.
It is recommended to first lock and unlock the car with an extra key. This will help ensure that your fob isn't the problem and also to eliminate a mechanical issue with the locks if it turns out to be an electrical one.
Batteries are typically the only thing needed to repair car key fobs. Replacing the batteries isn't expensive and you can do it yourself, without professional equipment.
It is important to use the correct type of battery. The majority of automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some may use different types. You can look up the label on your remote or examine the inside if you're not certain. The battery will usually have a printed or stamped number on it, or use a multimeter to see what the voltage is.
A different set of batteries could also be used. The batteries in the remote could be damaged or worn out over time. Replacing them may help restore the functionality of the remote.
If the battery change isn't working, try cleaning the fob and ensure that all buttons are functioning properly. Car key fobs are not indestructible and may get dirty if they are tossed around in purses or pockets. In certain cases, taking them off and cleaning them and flexing them back and out can help get your remote back up and running.
If you've tried every step on this list, and your car key fob isn't working, then you likely require it to be reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and can also provide you with a new or used replacement, if needed.