Car Key Replacement Services
If your car's remote fob stops working and you are left frustrated. Luckily, most automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer car key replacement services that can help you get your key back to working properly.
Try a few easy things at home before heading to the store or locksmith.
Keys that were stolen or lost are not found
It doesn't matter if you dropped it off in the car, put it on the counter when you ran to the supermarket, or simply lost it and not having your key fob is a big inconvenience. Most of these problems are easily fixed by you, even if you're not a professional. You might require a replacement battery or the fob might have lost its pairing information -- both are easily repaired.
Modern cars use remote controls that connect to their vehicle via a radio frequency. When your fob is working it sends out an alert that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance and also to start the engine. The fob itself isn't a mechanical key, so you can't simply have it cut at a hardware store and used to unlock your car. Modern fobs also include transponder chips that need to be programmed for your specific car in order for the keyless entry to function.
The most common issue with a car key fob is that it has lost the connection with the vehicle. This could happen if the battery dies, or if there is an electrical failure. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. While the majority of modern cars have the option to reset and re-pair the pairing, you can also consult the manual. If reseting your fob doesn't solve the issue, then you will need to have it changed to a different program. This usually requires the assistance of an automotive locksmith or dealer.
It's costly to purchase a replacement fob for the key and it could take a while for a dealer to purchase it and program it. Certain insurance policies cover the cost of a replacement however if it doesn't, it's not a bad idea to get in touch with your car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to see about getting the fob replaced. They are often able to duplicate keys immediately, saving you the cost and hassle of the tow truck. A locksmith can also give you a new, working key and replace your current transponder chip. This will require that the receiver module of your vehicle be synced.
Bad Battery
While modern car remotes are very convenient and provide a much more secure method to start your vehicle, they can still be frustrating when they stop working. Fortunately, this is usually something that can be fixed by replacing the battery in the key fob.
The batteries that are used in the majority of modern remote key fobs are lithium ion coin cells. They are quite affordable and do not have a limit in life, but they do have a limit to how long they last. When a remote car key is in frequent use, the battery may get worn out more quickly than the normal. This is possible when the battery is over-forced or exposed to moisture which can cause corrosion.
car key repair cost for a car key to not function is a worn or dead battery. If your remote key isn't working, you must check this first. In most cases, this will resolve the problem however, if it doesn't, it is time to get a replacement battery.
Most of the time, the battery is damaged because of oxidation or corrosion. It may also give acidic fumes or leaks of acid from the battery. This can cause weak connections between the terminals of the battery. 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 cleaning, you can connect the connectors back in place and test the remote once more.
While you are checking a dead or dying battery It is also a good idea to determine the buttons that have stopped functioning. This could be a sign of a larger issue with your remote. You'll need to seek out an expert to fix the problem. 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 directly on the spot using an onboard procedure or by connecting to your vehicle's OBD2 ports to program a key fob swiftly and securely.
Bad Transponder Chip
Similarly to the way the remote for your garage door transmits a specific signal to its receptor, so that it opens and closes the door, the chip in the car key transmits an unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. This code tells the vehicle that it's the right owner and prevents anyone else from starting the engine.
If you attempt to start your car but it won't be able to start, it's a sign that your transponder is malfunctioning. This could be due to a variety of reasons but is usually an indication that you require a new key.
Another common sign that a transponder chip gone bad is when your car won't lock using the key fob. If this happens, you'll be required to manually lock your doors instead. This can be a hassle particularly if your car is locked.
The transponder can stop working when the battery in your key fob is not functioning. Over time, the battery will gradually lose charge. Always keep an extra key fob on hand so you can replace the battery as needed.
There are many other issues that can arise from the chip of a car's transponder but the ones listed above are the most common. If the battery for your key fob is dead, or if the chip is damaged, it's important to get in touch with an auto locksmith to get the issue resolved quickly. They can reprogram the key or replace it completely according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto locksmith will be able to identify the issue and offer a solution that is reliable. Usually they are cheaper than taking your car to dealers.
Corrupted or Lost Pairing
It's not unusual for your car key fob to lose functionality as time passes. There are a few simple fixes that you can try to get your remote back to working.
It is recommended to first lock and unlock the car with a spare key. This will confirm that the fob isn't the cause of the issue, and determine if there is an issue with the mechanical locks in the event it is found to be an electrical issue.
Often, key fobs for cars simply need to have their batteries replaced. It's not expensive to replace the batteries and you don't need any special equipment.
It is crucial to select the correct type of battery. Most automotive fobs are designed to work with CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, but some may use other kinds. You can verify the label on the remote or examine the inside if you're not certain. The battery will usually have the number printed or stamped on it, or you can use a multimeter to see what the voltage is.
Another easy fix is to try a new battery. The batteries in the remote could be damaged or worn out over time. Removing them could bring back its functionality.
If the battery change doesn't work you can clean your fob and ensure that all buttons are functioning. The car key fobs are not indestructible and may become dirty if they are tossed around in purses or pockets. In some instances, taking out the buttons and then flexing in and out of them could bring your remote back to life.
If you've tried everything on this list and the car key fob still not functioning then you'll likely require it to be reprogrammed by a professional. Grays Locksmiths will do this and provide you with the new one or a used one if needed.
car key repair cost
Top comments (0)