10 Remote Car Key Repair Strategies All The Experts Recommend

· 5 min read
10 Remote Car Key Repair Strategies All The Experts Recommend

Car Key Replacement Services

If your car's key fob remote stops working it can be frustrating and annoying. Most automotive locksmiths and dealers offer replacement keys for car keys that can bring your key back to its original working condition.

Try a few simple things at home before heading to the dealer or a locksmith.

Keys stolen or lost

It doesn't matter if lost it or left it on the counter at the grocery store. Most of these problems are easily fixable by you, even if you're not a professional. You may have to replace the battery or the fob could not have the pairing information. Both of these problems can be easily fixed.

Modern cars have remote control keys that communicate with the vehicle using an exclusive radio frequency. When your fob works it sends a signal allowing you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely, as as starting the engine. The fob isn't a key that can be used mechanically that's why you can't cut it at the hardware store and then use it to open your car. The latest fobs come with transponders that need to be programmed for your car to allow keyless entry function.

The most common problem with a car key fob is that it has lost its connection with the vehicle. This can happen when the battery fails or it is triggered by something as simple as a power loss. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. While the majority of modern cars offer the option of reset and re-establish the pairing, you must also consult the manual. If reseting your fob doesn't solve the issue, then you'll need to have it reset. This usually requires the assistance of an automotive locksmith or dealer.

It can be expensive to purchase a replacement fob for the key and it could take a few days for a retailer to order it and program it. Certain car insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a fob however, if it's not covered, it's still worth getting in touch with the car's manufacturer or a local locksmith to discuss having the fob replaced. You can save time and money by having a locksmith create a copy of the key in-person. A locksmith can also cut you keys and replace the existing transponder chip. This will need to be synced with your car's receiver module.

Bad Battery

Modern car remotes are extremely convenient, and are a safer way to start a car. However, when  key repair shop near me  stop working, it can be very frustrating. Fortunately, this is usually something that can be solved by replacing the battery inside the key fob.

Most modern remote key fobs utilize lithium coin cell batteries that are ion. They are fairly inexpensive and do not have any limitations in terms of their lifespan. However, they do have a limit on their lifespan. When a remote car key is in frequent use it is possible that the battery will wear out more quickly than the normal. This can be caused by being pushed or pressed too hard or exposed to moisture, which could cause corrosion.

The most frequent reason for a car key to not function is a worn or dead battery. If your remote key isn't working, you should check this first. This can often resolve the issue. If it is not the case, you may have to replace the battery.

The majority of the time, a battery is bad due to corrosion or oxidation.  key repair shop near me  may also be leaking acid or emitting acidic fumes, which can cause poor connections between battery terminals. You can fix this by taking the battery off and cleaning the contacts with a baking soda solution and water. After cleaning the connectors you can then solder them in place and test the remote.

While you are checking a dead or dying battery it is also important to determine whether any buttons are no longer functioning. This could be a sign of a more serious problem with your remote. You will need to seek out an expert to repair the issue. A specialist can tell you if the remote can be repairable, or must be replaced. They can do this in a single visit with an onboard procedure or connect to your car's OBD2 port to program a new key fob a safe and fast way.

Bad Transponder Chip

Similarly to the way the remote to your garage door sends a specific signal to its receptor, so that it can open or close and closes, the chip in the car key transmits an unique code to the computer system of your vehicle. The car is informed that it is the correct owner and prevents anyone from running the engine without authorization.



One of the first indications that the chip in your transponder has been damaged is when you try to start your car and it refuses. This could be due to a number of reasons, but is usually a sign that it's time to get new car keys.

A transponder chip that is not working is a different sign. 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 stressful and inconvenient, especially if you are already locked out of your vehicle.

If the battery in your key fob is drained, it could also cause the transponder to cease to function. This could happen over time, because the fob battery slowly loses its charge. It is always recommended to keep an extra battery for the key fob in the case that you can replace it when required.

There are many other issues with the transponder chip in automobiles but these are the most frequent. Contact an auto locksmith as soon as possible if your key fob's battery is dead or the transponder chip has become faulty. They can either reprogram the key or replace it completely according to what's required. A Queen Creek auto lockout will be able to determine the issue and provide you with a reliable solution. Usually, they are more affordable than taking your car to dealers.

Pairings that are corrupted or lost

It's not uncommon to see your car's key fob to lose its functionality over time. However, there are easy fixes to help you get your car's remote functioning.

Try to lock and unlock your car using an alternative key. This will help ensure that your fob isn't the issue and will also help to rule out a mechanical problem with the locks, if it does turn out to be an electrical issue.

Often, key fobs for cars simply need to have their battery replaced. The cost of replacing the batteries isn't too expensive and you can do it yourself, without professional equipment.

It is crucial to select the correct type of battery. The majority of automotive fobs accept CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. However, some might utilize different types of batteries. You can check the label on your remote or look inside if you are not certain. The battery will have a number printed or stamped on it. You can also make use of a multimeter to determine the voltage.

Another solution is to try a different battery. Sometimes, the batteries in the fob may become corroded or worn out over time and replacing them could bring back the functionality of the remote.

If the battery change isn't working, try to clean out your fob and make sure all of the buttons are working properly. Car key fobs can become pretty dirty from being bashed around in purses and pockets and aren't completely indestructible. In some instances, taking out the buttons and then flexing in and out of them could bring your remote back to life.

If you have tried every step in this list, but your car key fob still isn't working, you'll probably need it reprogrammed. Grays Locksmiths can do this for you, and will also be able to provide you with a new or a used replacement if you need it.