10 Healthy Remote Car Key Repair Habits
Car Key Replacement Services
When your car remote key fob fails to function it can be a frustrating. Many locksmiths and dealers in the automotive industry offer car key replacements that can bring your key back to its original functioning condition.
Try a few simple things at home before heading to the dealer or a locksmith.
Lost or Stolen Keys
Whether you dropped it in the car, left it on the counter when you ran into the grocery store or simply lost it and not having your key fob is a big problem. Most of these issues can be easily fixed by you, even if there's no need for a professional. You might require a replacement battery or the fob might not have the pairing information, both of which can be easily repaired.
Modern cars use remote controls that communicate with the vehicle using a radio frequency. If your fob is in use, it sends out an alert that allows you to lock and unlock your car remotely, as well in starting the engine. The fob isn't an electronic key. You cannot have it cut in a hardware store and then use it to unlock your car. Newer fobs also have transponder chips that need to be programmed to your particular vehicle to allow keyless entry to function.
The most common problem with a car key fob is that it has lost its connection with the vehicle. This could happen if the battery dies or if there's an issue with the power. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Although most modern vehicles can be reset and re-establish the pairing, you should also consult the manual. If reseting the fob doesn't fix the problem, it will need to be reprogrammed, which typically requires a trip to an automotive locksmith or a dealership.
It's expensive to purchase a replacement key fob and it can take several days for a dealer to purchase it 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. You can save time and money by having a locksmith make copies of the key in-person. Locksmiths can also cut you keys and also replace the transponder chip. The new one will require synchronization with your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very practical and offer a more secure method to start your car, they can still be frustrating when they stop functioning. This issue can be solved by replacing the battery on the key fob.
The majority of modern remote key fobs utilize lithium coin cell batteries with ion. These are fairly inexpensive and are not limited in life, but they do have a limit to the length of time they can last. The battery of a remote key could wear out faster than normal if it is frequently used. This can happen when the battery is pushed or in a way that is too forceful or exposed to moisture which can cause corrosion.
The most common reason for the car key to not work properly is a dead or worn-out battery. This should be the first thing to check if your remote key has stopped working. In most cases, this will resolve the issue but if not it's time to replace the battery.
The majority of the time, a battery is bad due to corrosion or oxidation. It may also be leaking acid or emitting acidic fumes. This can result in weak connections between the battery's terminals. It can be fixed by taking the old battery out and cleaning all of the contacts with a solution made of baking soda and water. After the cleaning, you can solder the connectors back in place and then test the remote again.
When you're looking for a dying or dead battery, it is also good to check the buttons that have stopped functioning. This could indicate that there is a bigger issue with your remote, and you'll have to call in a professional to repair it. A professional can tell you if the remote can be repairable, or if it must be replaced. They can do this on the spot with an onboard procedure or by connecting to your vehicle's OBD2 ports to create a key fob in a short time and safely.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similar to how the remote for your garage door transmits a specific signal to its receptor, so that it can open or close, the chip inside your car key sends a unique code to the vehicle's computer system. This tells the car that it is the correct owner and prevents anyone from beginning the engine without authorization.
When you try to start your car and it won't, this is an indication that your transponder has failed. This could be due to various reasons but it is generally an indication that you require an entirely new key.
A transponder chip that is not working is another common sign. Your car will not lock using your key fob. In this instance you'll need to lock your vehicle manually. This can be frustrating especially if your vehicle is already locked.
The transponder may not function when the battery in the fob's battery is depleted. As time passes, the fob battery will slowly lose its charge. Always keep an extra key fob in your pocket so you can recharge the battery as required.
There are a variety of other issues with the transponder chip of a car however, these are the most prevalent. Contact an auto locksmith as soon as possible if your key fob's battery is dead or if the transponder chip is faulty. They can reprogram the key, or replace it completely, depending on what's needed. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able determine the problem and offer an effective solution. They are usually more cost-effective than taking your vehicle to a dealership.
Corrupted or lost pairing
It's not uncommon for the car key fob to lose function in time. There are a few easy fixes that you can try to get your remote working again.
Try to lock and unlock your vehicle with an alternative key. This will help to ensure that your fob isn't the issue and also to rule out a mechanical problem with the locks if it turns out to be an electrical issue.
Batteries are typically all you need to fix car key fobs. The cost of replacing the batteries isn't too expensive and you can do it yourself, without professional equipment.
It is essential to select the right type of battery However. The majority of automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some utilize different types. You can verify the label on your remote, or look inside if you are not certain. The battery will have a specific number stamped or printed on it. You can also make use of a multimeter to determine the voltage.
A different pair of batteries can also be used. car key lock repair near me inside the remote could be damaged or worn out over time. Replacing them can restore its functionality.
If changing the battery isn't working, try to clean out your fob and make sure all of the buttons are functioning properly. Car key fobs aren't indestructible and may become dirty if they are tossed around in purses or pockets. In some cases, simply taking the buttons off and cleaning them and bending them in and out can get your remote back up and running.
If you've tried every step on this list, and your car key fob still doesn't work, you will probably need it reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths will do this and provide you with either a new replacement or an old one if needed.