5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys can be complicated, and require professional repair when they break. This article will provide five tips to keep your car key in good condition.
In many cases, key fobs or remote controls can be fixed by simply replacing the battery. In certain cases, reprogramming is required. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek assistance from a professional.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs, which include remote start and keyless entry features, in addition to the traditional car key made of metal. These keys are powered with small batteries which eventually run out and need to be replaced. The process is simple and can be completed by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct battery type for your car model.
Consult the owner's guide for your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is being used. Once you have figured out what kind of battery is inside your key fob, head to an automotive parts store near you to purchase a replacement. You may find the exact battery on sale or even for free in the event of a special offer.
If you are careful to not force anything, you can pry apart two of the seams using a flat-head screws or your fingernail. Find the compartment for the battery. It'll be inserted, or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Make sure to carefully insert the new battery into place, making sure it is oriented correctly based on the way the old one was.
Once the new battery is in Replace the circuit board and snap the two parts of your key fob together. Test the buttons after reassembling them to verify that everything is working. The identification of the key fob won't change if the battery is changed and the key fob shouldn't require reprogramming after the repair. This is great news for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealership or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern key ignition systems for cars are extremely complex and require a precise series of actions before the engine can start. If something interrupts that process, such as a broken key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. It is possible to replace the key cylinder, however it is not an easy process. The ignition is a delicate system designed to work with one particular key and requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed to function.
The first step is to determine whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position and if the key is inserted correctly. This will allow you to identify the issue and provide the solution. If you're unable to get the cylinder to turn in any direction, you should check the owner's manual, or call a locksmith professional to assist with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder rotates in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver for depressing the small anti-rotation switch at the bottom of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder so that its retaining tabs and slots align and slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or won't turn, you can gently tap it or drill it. However, do it with caution because drilling or rapping the cylinder could cause damage to the steering column.
After the old cylinder has been taken gone, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. You'll then need to code the cylinder to ensure that it matches the key both in terms of sequence and orientation. It is also necessary to remove the tumblers from the cylinder, and examine them. You'll also have to replace any tumblers that are worn out.
After replacing the cylinder after which you'll need to connect the dashboard covers and the steering column in the correct order. Be sure to carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's very easy to accidentally detach and disrupt crucial electronic components. Reattaching the negative battery cable is also crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know each other" before the key can be used to start the engine.
A locksmith who has experience with various types of vehicles can reprogram a key quickly. They can also help you if your car key's lock has been damaged.
car key fob repairs of car locksmiths will tell you that the process may be as quick as one minute if the steps are done correctly. It can be a bit longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, as these procedures require your locksmith to extract specific modules from the car (security components) in order to identify the correct passcode and stored key data. This type of procedure should be left to professionals with extensive understanding of circuit boards and electronic components, reducing the chance of data corruption.
It's not uncommon for people to lose their keys to their car, leave them in the trunk of their vehicle, or simply leave them at home after loading groceries into the back of the car. In these instances it's not uncommon to be stuck at the side of the highway with no way to get to your home or get to your destination. Your locksmith can program a spare key to your vehicle to allow you to drive again.
The lock may be compromised or the key could be inoperable due to wear and wear and tear. If the teeth of your car key no longer fit in the lock, it is recommended to consider replacing the key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their own car keys. However, it is advised to seek out a professional. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car key, causing it to malfunction or worse, damage to your security system. A professional is more likely to not make a an error that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You'll need to remove the broken key from the ignition cylinder in case it breaks. It is not possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is best to hire a professional do this job, as incorrect use of lubricants and extraction tools could damage the ignition. If you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home first there are a few methods that can aid.
Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers with longer tips is a good method to grasp the end of the key that's still protruding from the ignition. You can also enhance your pliers by coating their business ends in sticky substances such as super glue, melted wax or putty. Once this is done the pliers will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.
A set of flexible, thin wire can be used to slide over a broken key and then pull it out of the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but be sure to bend both ends slightly to increase the area that can hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair broken keys. They must be very small and thin to fit in the small openings of the ignition cylinders. They can be found in hardware stores and the auto parts section of large box retailers.
Spraying a small amount of lubricant into the key hole is also a good idea, as it could loosen the car key and make it easier to get it out. Never try to force a broken car key out as this could cause further damage to the key, and even the ignition. It can be dangerous and difficult to repair the car key that has been bent or broken in half. Keep a spare key in a secure location at all times.