Car Key Replacement Services

When your car remote key fob stops working it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer replacement of your car key services that can help you get your key functioning properly.

Before rushing to the dealership or a professional locksmith take a few steps at home first.

Keys that have been stolen or lost are

If you dropped it in the car, left it on the counter when you ran into the grocery store or just plain lost it and not having your key fob can be a big hassle. Most of these issues can be easily fixable by you, even if you're not a professional. You might require a replacement battery or the fob might be missing its pairing information, both of which can be easily repaired.

Modern cars are equipped with remote controls that communicate with their vehicle using a radio frequency. When the fob is working it transmits an alert that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as as starting the engine. The fob isn't an electronic key. It isn't possible to get it cut at a hardware shop and use it to open your vehicle. Modern fobs also include transponder chips that must be programmed to your particular vehicle in order for keyless entry to work.

The most common issue with a car fob is when it fails to connect with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery fails or it is caused by something as minor as a power loss. 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 the fob will need to be reprogrammed. This usually requires a trip to an automotive locksmith or a dealership.

The cost of purchasing a replacement fob could be costly, and it takes several days for the dealer to purchase and program it. If your insurance policy doesn't cover the cost, it is worthwhile to contact the manufacturer of your vehicle or locksmith to determine whether you can get the fob replaced. They can often copy keys in a matter of minutes, saving you the cost and hassle of the tow truck. A locksmith can also give you a working, new key and also replace your old transponder chip. This requires that the receiver module of your vehicle be 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 a hassle when they stop functioning. This is usually a problem that can be resolved by simply replacing the battery in the key fob.

The majority of modern remote key fobs utilize lithium ion coin cell batteries. They are relatively cheap and don't have any limitations in terms of life. However they do have a limited lifespan. When a car key remote is used often, the battery may get worn out more quickly than it would normally. This is possible when the battery is pushed or over-forced or exposed to moisture that can cause corrosion.

A dead or worn out battery is the most frequent reason for a car key not responding properly. This should be the first thing to check if your remote key has stopped functioning. This is usually the solution to the issue. If it is not the case, you may need to replace the battery.

Most of the time the battery is damaged due to corrosion or oxidation. It may also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes that could cause poor connections between the battery terminals. This can be repaired by getting rid of the old battery and cleaning all of the contacts with a solution made of baking soda and water. After cleaning, Fob Key Repair you can put the connectors back in place and then test the remote again.

While you are checking a dead or dying battery, it is also good to see whether any buttons are no longer functioning. This could indicate that there is a bigger issue with your remote and you'll need to get a professional to repair it. A specialist can inform you if the remote is repairable, or if it must be replaced. You can either repair it immediately using an onboard procedure or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob in an efficient and safe way.

Bad Transponder Chip

Similarly to the way the remote for your garage door sends an exact signal to its receptor so that it can open or close the door, the chip in your car key sends an unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. 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 vehicle and it won't, this is a sign that your transponder is malfunctioning. This could be due to a variety of reasons but it is generally an indication that you require a new key.

Another sign that a transponder chip gone bad is when your car won't lock with the key fob. In this case you'll have to lock your car manually. This can be stressful and unsettling, especially in the event that you have already locked out of your vehicle.

The transponder may stop working if the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. This could happen over time, as the fob battery slowly loses its charge. It is always an ideal idea to keep an extra battery for the key fob in the case that you can replace it as required.

There are several other problems that could arise with the chip of a car's transponder but the ones listed above are the most prevalent. If your battery for the key fob is dead, or if the chip has failed it is important to contact an auto locksmith in order to get the issue fixed as quickly as possible. They can reprogram the key, or replace it completely, depending on what's needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to determine the issue and offer an effective solution. Usually, they are more affordable than taking your car to dealers.

Pairings that are lost or damaged

Your car key Fob key repair isn't indestructible and it's not uncommon for them to become obsolete as time passes. However, there are easy fixes to help you get your car's remote functioning.

The first thing you need to do is try using an alternate key to lock and unlock your vehicle. This will help ensure that your fob isn't the issue and will also help to determine if there is a mechanical issue in the locks if it does turn out to be an electrical issue.

Often, key fobs for cars require a battery replaced. It's not expensive to replace the batteries and you can do it yourself without any professional equipment.

It's important to use the correct type of battery, however. Most automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some may utilize different types of batteries. If you're unsure of the type of battery your remote is using you can look up the label or look inside. The battery is usually marked with a the number printed or stamped on it, or you could test it with a multimeter and determine what the voltage is.

A different set of batteries can also be used. The batteries in the remote may be damaged or worn out over time. Replacing them may bring back its functionality.

If the battery change isn't working, try to clean out the fob and ensure that all buttons are working correctly. Car key fobs don't last forever and may get dirty if they're used in purses and pockets. In certain cases, taking the buttons off and cleaning them and flexing them in and out will get your remote back up and running.

If you've tried everything on this list and your car key fob not working it is likely that you require it to be changed by an expert. Grays Locksmiths will do this and offer you an entirely new replacement or a used one, if required.