Discovering that your car key remote isn’t working is as stressful as it is frustrating, not to mention inconvenient. If you find yourself unable to use your car key remote, here’s a guide as to what may be causing the fault and the ways in which a car key remote can be programmed. 

Why Is My Car Key Remote Not Working?

It’s quick and easy to get a car key replacement, should the worse happen and you’re unable to fix your key remote. However, here are a few factors that may be causing the problem as well as simple solutions to fix them. 

Is The Fault With The Car? 

The car key remote itself may not be broken and the problem may be with the car’s locks or signal receiver instead. Use your spare car key remote (which you should make sure you always have for circumstances such as these) to test whether or not that’s working.

Bear in mind that if you bought both the spare and the main remote at the same time, the problem could still be with the batteries of the car keys as opposed to with the car.

Have The Remote’s Batteries Died?

While car key remotes do have impressively long battery lives, the time will at some point come when they need replacing and renewing. It’s likely to be a fault with the batteries if the buttons on the key need to be pressed multiple times before working, or if the key is working sometimes but not constantly.

Although many car keys are different, the majority run on Lithium coin batteries which can be easily sourced and replaced to get you back in your car in no time. 

Are There Any Broken Pieces In The Remote?

If you’re able and confident to do so, carefully take the car key remote apart to see if there are any broken or loose parts that are causing the device’s faults.

The majority of remotes split in half at the sides and can then easily be taken apart and put back together without causing any further damage. Loose pieces may be able to be put back into their place to start the key working again, although broken sections may need renewing and replacing.

Use this opportunity to gently dust off the car key in case any dust or dirt has entered the fob to stop it working properly. 

How Does A Remote-Control Car Key Work?

Remote control car keys, also known as keyless remotes, are essentially short-range radio transmitters that once pressed, send a coded signal to your car’s radio receiver by radio waves – this code is generated by the key fob’s controller chip.

The receiver unit then receives this code, and either locks or unlocks depending on the button you’ve pressed. Both the key and car must be in a certain range of one another for the signal to work, which is generally around 5-20 metres. 

The code itself is generated as one out of billions of possible others and is created via a number generator that’s located in both the transmitter and the receiver. Each time you press a button on your car key remote, two codes are generated and transmitted – one being the security feature code as mentioned above to unlock or lock the car, and the other is a function code telling the vehicle what specific task to perform (such as locking the doors or unlocking the boot).

Both the receiver and transmitter are coordinated to ensure that both recognise each other’s code that’s been sent. This coordination prevents other people from using their key remote to open your car, as they are not synchronised together and therefore won’t respond. 

How Do You Programme A Car Key Remote?

Programming your car key remote may seem like a daunting task but it’s an easy job to accomplish, you just need to be sure you’re doing each step in the right order and timeframe. The way in which you programme your car key remote will differ depending on whether your car has an ignition key or a push-button start, so here’s what to do in both scenarios:

For Cars with Push-Button Starts 

Once in the car, make sure all doors are closed before quickly pressing and releasing the start button 15 times (make sure you quickly press the button in just 1-2 second intervals). The engine should not be started during this process.

After pushing the button 15 times, push and release the lock button of the key fob, where the doors should immediately lock. This lock signifies that the programming is complete, and your key should be ready for use. 

For Cars with Ignition Keys

Once in the car, make sure all doors are closed and insert the key into the ignition before turning it to ‘ACC’ or ‘Accessories’ (the second position) – the engine should not be running at this point. Wait for 10 minutes and 30 seconds, before switching the ignition back off. 

After just a few moments, repeat the steps again and do this a total of 3 times. Your key should now be programmed and ready for use.

Struggling with a broken car key remote? No problem. Get in touch with us here at Fast Keys to discuss replacement or fixing solutions.

4 Simple Ways To Fix A Loose Door Handle

Due to the amount of use door handles get every day, it’s inevitable that they’ll become loose over time. Fortunately, though, it’s unlikely that there’s an issue with the entire door as a whole, and door handles are often easy and inexpensive to fix on your own.

Here are 4 simple ways to fix a loose door handle, as well as what may be causing the issue in the first place. 

Why Is My UPVC Door Handle Loose? 

There are many different reasons as to why your UPVC door handles have become loose, including the age of both the door and the handle itself. Here are some of the issues that may be causing the fault:

A Build-Up Of Dirt and Dust 

Just like any other fixture or fitting within the home, door handles can create a build-up of dirt, dust and other small particles over time which then prevents the handle or lock from functioning properly. 

A Screw Is Loose Or Missing 

If a screw has got so loose that it’s fallen out, it’s likely that the entire handle will fail to work. It’s for this reason that any screws you notice to be loose should be tightened straight away, to avoid losing them altogether. 

A Spring Cassette Is Broken

Most door handles include a spring cassette inside the mechanism; this supports the handle returning to its centre position once it’s been lifted or engaged through opening or locking. If the spring cassette is broken, the door handle will feel loose or wobbly. 

How Can I Fix My Loose Door Handle? 

In order to be able to fix your door handle, it’s likely you’ll need to remove it from the door to take a closer look at the problem.

To do this, remove the handle from the door completely by locating the screws and, using a screwdriver or Allen key, undo the screws so that the handle can pull away from the door. 

Once off, you’ll need to remove the base from the handle’s backing pate so that you can see inside. A flathead screwdriver can be used to gently undo the base, though be careful not to cause any further internal damage to the handle’s mechanism.

Once you’ve identified the fault and rectified it using the methods below, the base can easily be fitted back onto the backing plate again by clipping it into position. Then all that’s left to do is line the handle up with the holes and screw it back in place on the door. 

4 Simple Ways To Fix Your Loose UPVC Door Handle

1. If the door handle is particularly old or overworked, the problem may be due to a build-up of dirt, which will require a good clean of both inside and outside the handle to ensure all particles and fragments of dust are removed. Use this opportunity to clean the lock as well in case the same thing has happened inside. ?
2. Once you’ve removed and taken apart the handle, you’ll also be able to see if any screws are loose or missing within the device. Using a screwdriver, tighten the screws or purchase replacements for any that are lost. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can also lead to the handle not working properly. 
3. The handles may bind over time due to their age or from a lot of use, so once apart, try putting a small amount of grease in the handle to ensure it’s well lubricated.
4. If none of the above methods work, then the fault may be with the handle’s spring cassette. There could be multiple reasons as to why the cassette has stopped working, from general wear and tear over time, to rust having occurred should the handle have endured any type of water damage. You can either source and purchase a replacement spring cassette, or you may find it more beneficial to simply replace the door handle entirely to avoid wasting money on new parts when the cause of the fault isn’t clear.

Everything You Need to Know About the UK Dog Tag Law 

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 means that all pet dogs (though some exemptions do apply) must wear a collar that includes their owner’s name and address on it at all times when in public. While some owners may think that microchipping their dog is enough proof of identification, this is absolutely not the case and those who don’t comply with the law could be fined up to £2,000. 

Dogs that are found without the correct identification could also be assumed to be stray dogs and may therefore be treated as such, which will ultimately entail more fines due to the expenses involved in this process. To avoid these fines, here’s everything you need to know about the UK dog tag law. 

What Information Should Be on A Dog Tag? 

Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, the owner’s details can be inscribed onto the collar itself, or most commonly, on a dog tag attached to the collar. A dog tag is an inexpensive and convenient way of presenting information and is therefore generally the chosen method for the majority of dog owners.  The dog tag must include both the owner’s name and address on it, including the postcode. This can be just the initial of a first name and the surname, or the entire name if room allows for this. 

It’s not mandatory by law to display a contact number on the dog tag, but the inclusion of a mobile number is generally advised so that the owner can be contacted as soon as possible should the dog ever go missing. Likewise, it’s not the law to include your dog's name on the tag, so it is entirely up to you whether or not you want to do this. However, it is worth considering the risks of dog theft, and thieves knowing your dog’s name can make it easier to both pass off the dog as their own to potential buyers and also help the dog to respond to the thieves when calling their name. 

Should I Take My Dogs Collar Off at Night?

While it will entirely depend on what your dog feels most comfortable with, most dogs will benefit from having their collars taken off at night to allow that area of fur and skin to breathe for several hours. Being without their collars when in bed, particularly for dogs who sleep in crates, can help them feel more relaxed and in a safe space, and will also eliminate the small risk of potential hazards from occurring such as strangulation or choking throughout the night. 

Are There Any Dogs Exempt from The Dog Tag Law? 

There are certain dogs that are exempt from the dog tag law, and these include:

• Military, customs or police dogs
• Dogs being used in emergency rescue work 
• Dogs being used for sporting purposes 
• Dogs being used to herd and drive cattle or sheep
• Dogs that are registered as guide dogs
• Dogs that are being used to capture vermin
• Dogs that are packs of hounds 

These dogs are exempt from the Control of Dogs Order 1992 when they are in the specific role listed above. However, those same dogs must comply with the law back when they’re with their owners and walking in a public place.  

How Do You Put A Tag on A Dog's Collar?

Dog tags are generally attached to a dog collar in two ways, through an S-hook or a split ring. For an S-hook, you need to loop the hook through the hole of the tag and once on, pinch the hook closed using a pair of pliers. This needs to be done with enough force to gently close the gap to prevent the tag from looping off again once in motion. 

If you choose to use a split ring to attach the tag, use both your thumbs to gently separate the ring enough to place the hole of the tag onto the end, and then slide the tag through the ring until it releases into the gap and is fully attached. Both the S-hook and the split ring should only need to be attached to the tag once, as both should be very secure, and the tag shouldn’t ever detach itself. 

In need of a dog tag? We have a variety of different sized tags available at Fast Keys, with engraving options available.

Re-key Vs. Replace Locks – How to Decide What's Best for You

From moving into a new home and wanting added security to ensuring old employees can’t access filing cabinets, there are a number of instances that may require you to either rekey or replace your locks. Whatever your reason may be, it can sometimes be tricky to decide whether rekeying or replacing the lock is most beneficial. This guide will take you through how to make a practical decision.

What Does It Mean to Rekey A Lock? 

When rekeying a lock, you need to alter the lock mechanism to ensure the old key no longer opens it, and replacement keys are needed to do so. The rekeying process involves removing the pins and springs within the lock cylinder, and then replacing these with new pins and springs that work and fit with a new key.

Rekeying a lock is a popular option for people who simply want to maintain key control, usually after a house move or having lost a key, to ensure unwanted people can’t gain access. Key control refers to accounting for all the keys made to operate that specific lock - once keys are loaned out to friends, family members or colleagues, the key control is then lost.

The Benefits of Rekeying A Lock

Because locks are often lubricated during the process of rekeying them, they ultimately operate more smoothly and with greater ease as a result of this process.

If a completely new style of lock isn’t required, rekeying a lock is an affordable choice to make, as it is a quick method that doesn’t take the lock out of service for a prolonged length of time. Rekeying a lock is therefore particularly ideal for locks for domestic door keys, as the process is both fast and easy, while also providing an increased sense of security for your home. 

What Does It Mean to Replace A Lock?

There are many reasons as to why people may want to replace a lock, including wanting to update to a more modern lock such as an electronic one, or to replace the locks purely for aesthetics. But, if a lock is damaged and beyond the help of rekeying, replacement locks are the best option. 

With so many different types of lock available, those redecorating or making home improvements may choose to replace the lock with one that complements the design of the building. Another common reason for replacing locks is to accommodate the person using them. Lever handle locks, for example, are generally much easier to use than locks that include a knob handle, and are therefore a popular choice for those with disabilities or people suffering from pain in their hands. 

The Benefits of Replacing A Lock 

Finding the right lock with the right security is crucial in ensuring both your home and belongings are kept safe. One of the benefits of replacing a lock is to customise the lock to suit your preferences, from the ways in which the lock looks and feels to the levels of protection it provides. Replacing your locks also gives you the opportunity to upgrade the security they deliver, with the option to pick new and improved designs that are currently on the market, as opposed to just rekeying and having to stick with the lock you already have. 

Is It Cheaper to Rekey Or Replace Locks?

Generally speaking, rekeying a lock is a cheaper option compared to replacing it. This is due to the fact that replacing a lock involves paying out for an entirely new lock body, whereas rekeying means you’ll just have to pay for the new replacement pins and springs within the lock instead.

Overall, it’s best to look at all the options and all the kinds of lock available before making your decision, as well as assessing the reasons as to why the lock needs changing overall, to determine which benefits will be most advantageous to you.