There’s nothing more frustrating than realizing that your car key is not working, especially when you are running late for an important client meeting. It can happen to almost anyone at the most inconvenient time possible. But who says that you can do nothing about it?
This article aims to cover the most common reasons your car key may not be working and how to troubleshoot the issues you are facing. We will also jot down some tips on how to prevent this from happening again. With that said, you will become a pro in dealing with car key issues and calling experts if needed.
Common Car Key Problems: What Causes Them
Damaged Key
Are your remote key fob buttons unresponsive, or won’t your key turn in the ignition? Imagine you are in a hurry and having difficulty accessing your vehicle. You are not alone! We have all been there at some point or another. In most cases, it is a result of a damaged key.
This (damaged key) often happens due to accidental drops or bumps, exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures, or regular wear and tear.
Incorrect Programming
Your car key battery may have recently been replaced, but to your surprise, it’s not working already. Or perhaps you just took your car for servicing, but now the key fob seems to be unresponsive. This can surely leave you wondering what the real reason behind it could be. Unfortunately, incorrect programming is the cause. This is common after battery replacements, software updates, or minor electrical glitches in the vehicle.
Interference
Your key fob is working erratically, and you can do nothing about it. Sometimes, it successfully unlocks your car, but other times, it simply does not. Interference could be the culprit here. Metal objects, electronic devices, or strong electromagnetic fields may disrupt the signal between your car and the key fob. Consider moving away from potential sources of interference if you experience such difficulty. See if this helps.
Faulty Ignition Cylinder
Have you ever faced a situation when your key turns in the ignition, but your car still does not start? A faulty ignition cylinder could be the reason to blame. The ignition cylinder is the one that transmits the signal from your key to the car’s starter. If it malfunctions, the chances are high that your vehicle will not start even if your key turns in the ignition. Due to wear and tear, corrosion, or damage, the ignition cylinder can go out of order.
Damaged Lock
Does your key fit into the ignition but not start? Maybe you are unable to unlock your car’s doors with your key fob. This is a clear sign of a damaged lock. If you face this issue, have it repaired or replaced by a professional.
Dead Keyfob Battery
A dead battery can make your key fob ineffective. A keyfob’s battery usually lasts for a couple of years. Ultimately, its lifespan depends on varying factors, from usage frequency to extreme temperatures. It’s a good idea to have a spare for emergencies to avoid being stranded.
How to Troubleshoot Your Car Key Issues
Now that we have explored all the possible reasons why your car key is not working, it’s time to see what you can do to fix it. Let’s go through these steps to see if it helps:
- Check the Battery: If your key fob is not responding, first and foremost, check the battery.
- Test Key Proximity: A simple way to fix an ineffective key is to make sure your key is within range of your car. Some cars have a specific range for keyless entry.
- Inspect for Damage: Are your keys physically damaged? Check them once to rule out this possibility. Is there a crack or showing signs of wear?
- Try a Spare Key: If you have a spare key fob, try it. This can help you determine whether the issue is with your car or your key.
- Call a Mechanic: You may have tried everything, but everything went in vain. Now, it’s time for an expert to take over. A mechanic is the first person to call if you still face issues.
What Preventive Measures to Take
Car key issues arise when you least expect them. No doubt, it’s frustrating. Not only does it leave you stranded (and you have to be somewhere immediately) and feeling annoyed, but it can also make you spend money on replacing damaged keys. That’s where preventative measures come to your aid. Why not take these measures to prevent these car key issues?
- Keep your key fob away from moisture or other elements to prolong its lifespan.
- Key fob batteries are meant to last for a few years. Replace the battery when it nears its end of life.
- Avoid dropping or bumping your key fob against something hard. Handle your key fob with care.
- Electronic devices are likely to interfere with your key fob’s signal. Keep your cell phone and other electronic devices away from the key fob while using it.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. Ample are the reasons why your car key may not be working the way it should. It can be due to damaged keys, interference, or a faulty ignition cylinder. Hopefully, you got an insight into why your car key is causing problems and how to troubleshoot the issues. The next time you face any of the issues mentioned above, don’t be afraid to troubleshoot the issue yourself. If it does not help, call in the professionals for car key duplication services.
Also, don’t forget to be proactive about taking preventative measures to avoid such issues in the future.
