What to Do If the Duplicate Car Key Doesn't Work?
3 Answers
The solution to a duplicate car key not working is to match the chip and decode it. The key contains a chip, and if only the key is duplicated without the chip, it won't unlock the car. Functions of car keys: 1. After turning off the vehicle, long-press the lock button on the remote key to close the windows; 2. The red horn-shaped button on the key serves both as a car locator and an emergency function; 3. It features an automatic trunk opening function. The principle of car keys is that the owner emits a weak radio wave, which is received by the car's antenna. The electronic control unit (ECU) identifies the signal code, and the system's actuator motor or electromagnetic coil performs the locking or unlocking action.
That time I just got a new key made, but it wouldn't unlock the door no matter what, which really scared me. Turns out the key battery might have been drained, especially since newly made keys can run out of power quickly with frequent use. Try buying a new battery and replacing it. If there's no response at all, check if there are any phones or other electronic devices nearby interfering with the signal, and move them farther away. If there's a physical key part, try manually turning the door lock to get in. If that still doesn't work, pull out your spare key as a temporary solution—it's a good habit to always carry a spare to save trouble. In an emergency, don't just wait around; call a tow truck or head to a repair shop to see if it's a matching issue. Mechanics have professional equipment to handle it. After learning this lesson, I always keep my key battery charged to avoid awkward situations.
It's quite common to encounter situations where the key won't unlock the car. Having driven for over a decade, I know how to handle it. Most of the time, it's just a dead battery in the key—replacing it with a CR2032 battery from a convenience store solves most issues. However, if it's a newly programmed key, the problem might be poor pairing, requiring a visit to the dealership for a reset. Don’t overlook the possibility of a low-voltage car battery affecting the remote signal—try using the physical part of the key to unlock and start the engine. Signal interference is another issue, such as when too many electronic devices in a parking lot disrupt the key's function—just try moving to a different spot. Regular maintenance of the key, like avoiding rough handling, saves both money and hassle in the long run.
