5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complicated, and they require professional help to repair them if something goes wrong. This article will give you five tips to keep your car key in good working order.
Most of the time, issues with key fobs and remote controls are simply resolved by replacing the battery. In other instances, reprogramming may be necessary. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek out professional assistance.
Battery Replacement
Many modern vehicles come with remote key fobs, which include remote starting and keyless entry features. They also include a traditional metal key. They are powered by small batteries that eventually deplete and require replacement. Fortunately this process is easy and can be accomplished by any auto accessory shop that stocks the appropriate battery type for your vehicle model.
Consult the owner's guide for your vehicle to determine the kind of battery is in use. Once you know the type of battery is inside the key fob, head to an auto parts store near you to purchase a replacement. In most cases, you can get the same battery at a discount or even free with the promotion.
Once you have the new battery in your possession you can simply open your key fob and take out the circuit board by tearing away two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you are careful not to press any thing). Next you need to locate the battery compartment and it should be easy to identify It will either be slotted in or have a plus and minus sign embossed on it. Place the new battery in carefully, making sure that it is oriented exactly the same way as the old one.
After the new battery is installed replace the circuit board and then snap the two parts of your key fob together. Test the buttons after reassembling to make sure everything works. The key fob's ID will not be affected by changing the battery, so it shouldn't be required to be repaired after the repair. This is great news for those who want to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Repair
Modern key ignition systems for cars are extremely complex and require a precise sequence of actions prior to the engine starting. A broken key cylinder can cause your car to stop starting. Although it is possible to replace the key cylinder however, it's not an easy process. The ignition system is delicately that is designed to work with a particular key and requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed function.
Determine if you can turn the ignition in the accessory position. Also, check to see if the key will fit correctly. This will help you diagnose the issue and determine the solution. If you can't get the cylinder to turn in any position it is recommended to consult your owner's manual or call a locksmith professional to assist you with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder turns in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation switch located at the base of cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder until its tabs and slots line up and slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or won't move, you can gently tap it or drill it. Be careful as drilling or rapping can damage the steering wheel.
After the old cylinder has been taken out and the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. The next step is to program the cylinder so that it matches the key in terms of sequence, and orientation. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from cylinder and inspect them. If any of the tumblers are worn out, you'll need to replace them.
After replacing the cylinder you'll need to attach the dashboard and steering wheel covers in the proper order. Make sure to attach the panels without damaging the wiring, as it's easy to lose the connection and damage important electronic components. It's also essential to reconnect the negative battery cable, and to test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys come with a computer chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know eachother" before the key can start the engine.
car key fob repairs near me with experience in a wide range of vehicles can reprogram your new key to your car quickly. They can also help you if your car key's lock has been damaged.
The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process could take as little as one minute if the steps are taken in the right order. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a bit longer because your locksmith will have to remove specific modules from the car in order to access the passcode and key information. These kinds of procedures should be reserved for professionals with extensive knowledge of electronic circuits and circuit boards, reducing the risk of corrupting data.
It's not common for people to misplace their keys to their car or leave them in the trunk of the car or leave them at home after putting groceries in the back seat. In these scenarios it's not uncommon to be stuck at the side of the highway without a way to get to your home or where you want to go. Your locksmith can program a spare key for your vehicle so you can drive once more.
Car keys may stop working for a variety reasons, such as normal wear and tear or in the event that the lock is damaged. If the teeth on your car key do not fit in the lock as well it is an indication that you should replace the key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their car keys themselves. However, it is recommended to employ a professional instead. These DIY methods can cause a corruption of the information on your car keys, causing it to malfunction, or even worse, damage to your security system. A professional will have a much less chance of making an error that could cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You'll need to remove the broken key from the ignition cylinder if it fails to function. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is recommended to hire a professional complete the task, since the incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools could damage the ignition. However, if you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home first, there are some methods that could help.
A pair of needle-nosed pliers with extra-long tips can be used to grasp the key end that is still stuck in the ignition. You can also boost the performance of your pliers by coating their business ends with sticky substances such as super glue, melted wax or putty. After this is done, the pliers will be able to grasp the key piece and pull it straight out of the cylinder.
A set of flexible, thin wire can be used to slide over the broken part of a key and pull it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used for this, but bend the ends in a way so that the fragment of the key is firmly held by the wider surface.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair damaged keys. But, they should be thin and compact to fit inside the small openings of ignition cylinders. They are available at hardware stores, as well as the auto parts section at some large retailers.
Spraying a bit of lubricant into the key hole could be a great idea, as it may loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to get it out. It is not a good idea to try to force out a damaged key, as it can cause further damage to the key or ignition. A car key that's bent or snapped in half can be risky and difficult task to repair, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for your car in a secure place in all at all times.