If your car's remote key fob fails to function, it can be frustrating. Most locksmiths and dealers in the automotive industry offer replacement keys for car keys that can bring your key back to its original functioning condition.
Try a few easy things at home before you rush to the dealer or locksmith.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
It doesn't matter if you dropped it off in the car, put it on the counter when you went to the supermarket, or simply lost it, not having your key fob can be a big problem. Luckily, most of these problems can be resolved by yourself, even without the assistance of an expert. You might need to replace the battery or the fob may not have the pairing information -- both are easily fixed.
Modern cars use remote control keys that communicate with the vehicle using a special radio frequency. When your fob works it sends an alert that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as well being able to start the engine. The fob isn't a mechanical key, so you can't simply get it cut at an hardware store and use it to open your car. The latest fobs include transponders that must be programmed for your vehicle to make keyless entry work.
The most common issue with a car fob is when it loses its connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery goes dead or if there's a power failure. While car key repair service offer the option of resetting the fob and re-establish its pairing, you should check the owner's manual for instructions. If resetting the fob does not fix the problem it must be reprogrammed. This usually requires a trip to the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
It can be expensive to purchase a replacement key fob and it can take several days for a dealer to order it and program it. Certain insurance policies will cover the cost of a replacement however if it doesn't, it's still worth getting in touch with your vehicle's manufacturer or a locksmith in your area to inquire about replacing the fob. Locksmiths can usually duplicate keys immediately and save you the expense and hassle of towing a truck. A locksmith can also cut keys and also replace the transponder chip, which will need to be synced to your car's receiver module.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are convenient and offer a safer method of starting your car but they can be frustrating when they stop working. This issue can be solved by replacing the battery in the key fob.
The batteries that power the majority of modern remote key fobs are coin cells made of lithium ion. They are fairly inexpensive and do not have any limitations on their life. However, they do have a limited lifespan. When a remote car key is used often it is possible that the battery will be worn out faster than it would normally. This can happen when the battery is over-forced or exposed to moisture, which can cause corrosion.
The most common reason for a car key to not function properly is a worn or dead battery. This should be the first thing to check to determine if your remote has stopped functioning. This will often fix the issue. If it is not the case, you may have to replace the battery.
Most of the time, batteries fail because of oxidation or corrosion. It may also be leaks acid or emitting acidic fumes. This can lead to poor connections between the battery terminals. This can be fixed by getting rid of the old battery and cleaning all contacts with a solution of baking soda and water. After cleaning, you can solder the connectors back in place and then test the remote again.
While you are checking the battery for dead or dying it is also important to determine if any buttons have stopped functioning. This could be a sign of a more serious problem with your remote. You will need to contact a professional for repair. A specialist can tell you if the remote can be repairable, or needs to be replaced. They can either do this on the spot with an onboard procedure or connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to program a new key fob an efficient and secure way.
Bad Transponder Chip
The chip in your car key sends an unique code to your vehicle's computer, in the same way that the remote control for your garage door transmits signals to its receiver to shut or open it. The car is informed that it is the right owner and prevents anyone from beginning the engine without authorization.
If you attempt to start your vehicle and it doesn't start begin, it's a sign that your transponder has failed. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but it's typically a sign that it's time for a new car key.
A transponder chip which has failed is a different indication. Your car won't lock if you use your key fob. In this situation, you'll need to lock your car manually. This can be very frustrating especially if your vehicle is already locked.
In the end, if the battery of your key fob is drained, it could also cause the transponder to cease functioning. This can happen over time, because the fob battery slowly loses its charge. It is always recommended to keep an extra key fob battery in your possession, so that you can replace it when necessary.
There are many other issues that could arise with the transponder chip in your car, but the ones listed above are the most common. Contact an auto locksmith as soon as possible in the event that your key fob's battery is dead or the transponder chip has become defective. They can reprogram the key, or replace it entirely according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to determine the problem for you and provide a reliable solution. Usually they are less expensive than taking your car to an auto dealer.
Corrupted or Lost Pairing
The key fob in your car isn't impervious to damage, and it's not uncommon for them to become obsolete in time. There are fortunately, key fob repair can try to help you get your car's remote back functioning.
The first thing you must try is using an additional key to lock and unlock your car. This will help ensure that your fob isn't at fault and will also help to determine if there is a mechanical issue in the locks if it does turn out to be an electrical one.
Often, key fobs for cars simply need to have their batteries replaced. Replacing the batteries isn't expensive, and you can usually do it yourself with no professional equipment.
It is important to use the right type of battery. Most automotive remotes accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some might use different types. If you're not sure what type of battery your remote uses you can look up the label or examine the inside of. The battery is usually marked with a an engraved or stamped number on it, or you can test it with a multimeter and determine what the voltage is.
Another option is to try a different battery. The batteries inside the remote could 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 make sure that all buttons are working. Key fobs for cars can get pretty dirty from being thrown around in pockets and purses, and they aren't indestructible. In some instances, just removing and cleaning the buttons and bending them in and out can get your remote working again.
If you've tried everything listed here and the car key fob still not working then you'll likely require it to be changed by a professional. Grays Locksmiths will do this and can offer you a new replacement or a used one if needed.
