People are vigilant about keeping track of their keys, but there are always those harried moments when your mind is racing in five different directions, and they get misplaced or damaged. Unfortunately, it’s often your only key because most dealers supply a single key when purchasing a vehicle. 

It’s always suggested to get duplicate car keys in Vancouver to prevent the potential of a lockout. In the distant past, most people would visit their local hardware store to get a copy. These were often low quality and didn’t work or broke. However, today, many autos come with a key fob. 

A hardware store won’t be able to duplicate or program this device. People usually go to a reputable and qualified locksmith for a simple and time and cost-efficient process or check with the car’s dealer to try to get a new one. Working with the dealer can sometimes prove complex, time-intensive and costly. 

Tips On Replacing a Lost or Damaged Car Key FOB

Key fobs are used for remote entry into a car, with some providing push-button start capabilities and other functions such as opening the hatch or trunk. As a rule, these devices incorporate RFID – Radio Frequency Identification or a transponder chip for vehicle communication. 

As they get more complex, repairing or replacing the device becomes intricate. Several factors can lead to seeking professional assistance, and a few options are available for doing so. Visit What To Do When You Lose Your Car Keys | AAA Automotive – for advice when you lose your car keys.  Here are reasons you may need to replace or repair a key fob. 

• Lost/stolen: One of the common reasons car owners seek professional assistance with their key fob is when they lose the key. A lost key fob can be distressing and frustrating, particularly when you can’t access your vehicle. A stolen device presents a security risk because the criminals will be able to access the auto. 

• Damaged device: As time goes on, key fobs can become worn, leading to damages, including cracks in the exterior case or nonfunctioning buttons. When the chip or the electronic elements are damaged, the fob may stop communicating with the auto. 

• The battery: Batteries keep the key fob operational but will wear down and stop working. Some devices have a relatively easy battery replacement, but others need the device to be opened, which can damage it if you’re unsure how to do it. 

• Electronic malfunction: Issues unrelated to the battery are often due to electronic malfunction. That can happen from extreme temperature exposure, water damage, or basic wear and tear. 

Car key fobs can use a transponder technology with RFID – Radio Frequency Identification capability. The device works as follows: 

• RFIB: The key fob buttons act as an encrypted messenger between the fob and the auto via radio waves. 
• Transponder chips: Advanced key fobs utilize a transponder chip to transfer messages to the car’s electronic system. As a security measure, the chip ensures that your key is the only one capable of starting the vehicle. 

• Proximity sensors: A push-button technology is incorporated into modern key fobs. These devices must be within the auto’s range for you to gain entry and start the car. These features are for added convenience; however, repairs or replacements can be complex and involve reprogramming. 

Choosing A Professional Locksmith for Your Key Fob Needs

Many people are of the misperception that auto dealers who sell cars are the only resource for replacing or reprogramming the key fob. In fact, qualified and quality professional locksmiths are as effective and efficient. Go here for guidance on repairing or replacing your fob. 

• Cost-efficiency:  Key fob repairs or replacement requiring reprogramming using a dealer can often be time-consuming and complicated with a considerable expense. Locksmiths offer quality results with cost-efficient pricing and a simplified process. 

• Rapid response: Dealers’ timeframe for repairs or replacements can be extensive, ranging from as long as a few weeks to receive the new fob. Reliable locksmiths often have a fast turnaround, usually the same day. 
• The convenience: Locksmiths are flexible and willing to meet clients at the location, whether along a busy road, at their place of employment, or residence. This can avoid the need for an expensive tow.

• Expertise:  Some quality and qualified locksmiths specialize in key fob replacement and reprogramming for most makes and models. They have extensive training and come with the proper tools to do the job right the first time so there are no complications later.  

When locksmiths approach a key fob job, they must follow a stringent protocol to confirm ownership before proceeding with the repair or replacement. Here are the steps they follow: 

• Confirm ID: Reputable locksmiths follow stringent safety protocols confirming the car owner’s identity and the auto make/model. These details are critical to obtaining the correct device. 

• Programming:  A key fob must be adequately programmed to communicate with the vehicle computer. The process requires syncing the fob signal with the car to readily identify it. 

• Extra services: If the fob is lost or stolen, professional locksmiths will disable the old one to ensure an unauthorized individual cannot access the car. 

Reputable locksmiths provide competitive pricing that typically falls below that of a dealer. When choosing a locksmith for your device needs, you can anticipate efficient and reliable service performed promptly. 

Locksmiths understand the inconvenience and frustration involved with being without car keys and prioritize the client’s best interest in providing same-day service as they’re able. They will go out of their way to come to you to make the services convenient and as simple and straightforward as possible.

Final Thought

Key fobs are the modern must-have when operating a vehicle. They can induce frustration and cause inconvenience when they malfunction or are misplaced.   

Whether you lose the device or need it repaired or replaced, a professional locksmith will handle the issue simply and promptly at an affordable price point.  

Nieka Ranises