Not everyone is tech savvy, especially when it comes to car key fobs! Most drivers are unsure how to open up the key casing, never mind what to do if it opens. That’s why OEM is always on hand to help you out.
In past decades, the only way to start a traditional vehicle engine was to insert the key into the starter and turn. Now, we have smart remotes, push button starters, and all-in-one key fobs.
All this modernisation does have some drawbacks, so here are some of the most common problems you might encounter with your new smart car key and what can you do to prevent them causing you a headache in the future.
Bad car key batteries
Every modern car key fob has a battery and they don’t last forever. Vehicle manufacturers have considered this, however, and a system in place that will warn you if your car key battery is on the blink.
If your key fob battery is becoming weak, you must get it fixed as soon as you can. It’s the same as when your car dashboard warns you when the vehicle is about to run out of petrol.
If you don’t have time to pop into a car key locksmith immediately, make sure to carry the spare key around with you in case the battery packs up while your car is in use
Can the vehicle be stolen if the key fob is left in the car?
This is a tricky dilemma. As convenient as it is to not have to turn the car key to start the engine, it can be easy to forget to carry your car key fob with you when you exit the vehicle.
This is true for most high pressure situations, such as rushing to work, shopping with the family, or parking in a ticket issuing car park.
The bad news is that it is very easy to steal a car if the key fob has been left inside it. Before committing to buying a new car, you might want to check if there is a system in place to stop this, such as a proximity card you can keep in your pocket or bag. Also, check if your insurance covers such situations.
Is it possible for me to override the car key fob system during an emergency?
This is a difficult question for all car manufacturers. Of course they want the driver to be able to override the car key fob system if there is an emergency, such as a flat battery or if the key fob has been damaged. But they also need to supply the car owner with a measure of safety which is why overriding a car key fob is so difficult.
There might be a workaround, and we recommend you learn how to do it before you’re in any situation where it is demanded.
- Make sure to carry the car manual in your dashboard glove box or memorise the page you need to use.
- You will need to place your car key fob somewhere in the vehicle to activate the override feature.
- Each make and model has a different override system to deter car theft.
- If there is a problem starting your vehicle it might not be the car key fob.
- If the vehicle doesn’t start after placing the key fob in the recommended area, it might not be a dead battery or damaged key fob.
- Remember, the location will not be an easy one to find; only the owner's manual will be able to tell you where the override can be located.
Do I need a backup key fob for my car?
You should always have a backup key fob for your vehicle. You will need to know if the problem stems from the car key fob or some other area in the vehicle, but starting with the key fob is a good idea.
If you lose your car key or it gets accidentally damaged, carrying a spare around with you can save you a lot of money in the long run. Aslo, if you make a car theft insurance claim, you will need to prove you have both car keys in your possession after making a claim. Additionally, you will only be able to trade in your vehicle or sell it if there is a spare key.
Either way, having a backup spare car key fob is a prerequisite to safe and happy car ownership.
Safe driving to all our customers. Please contact us if you want to know more about duplicate car key cutting locksmith service.
